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OF  THE 

U N I V ER.S  ITY 
or  ILLINOIS 


Z>Q,G.\ 

XIgc 


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in  2017  with  funding  from 

University  of  Illinois  Urbana-Champaign  Alternates 


https://archive.org/details/ceremonialscompiOOfree 


CEREMON I ALS 


(XlMl’lLKT)  FOR  FSK  OF 


LOIKiES  \V0KKIN(;  UNDER  .HIRISDICTION 


OF  THE 


FREE  AND  ACCEPTED  MASONS 


STATE  OF  ILLINOIS. 


THE  CEREMONIES  OF  INSTALLATION  OF  GRAND  OFFICERS,  INSTITUTING 
LODGES  UNDER  DISPENSATION,  CONSTITUTINCJ  LOIXJES  UNDER 
CHARTER,  INSTALLATION  OF  OFFICERS,  DEJ)K'ATING 
MASONIC  LODGE  HALLS,  LAYING  CORNER 
STONES  OF  PUP>LIC  EDIFICES,  FUNER  AL 
SERVICE,  THE  PLACING  OF  CAPE- 
STONES — WITH  APPENDIX. 


FREEPORT,  ILL.: 

JOUHNAT  POWER  PRESS  AND  BINDERY. 
1893. 


C O }»  Y R I G H T SECURED. 


366.  I 


Cv. 


Sr 


LNSTAIIATION  OF  GKANP  OFFICEKS. 


A Past  Grand  Master  takes  the  Chair,  as  installing  officer,  and  says: 

Brethren  of  the  Grand  Lodge  of  Illinois,  we  are 
now  prepared  to  install  your  Grand  Officers  for  the 
ensuing  year.  Brother  Grand  Secretary,  you  will  an- 
nounce the  names  of  the  brethren  who  have  been 
elected  and  appointed  to  fill  the  several  stations  of  this 
Grand  Lodge. 

As  the  names  are  called  the  officers  elect  should  take  position  in  line, 
near  the  presiding  officer. 

G I' and  Marshal.  Most  Worshipful  Grand  Master, 
the  officers  elect  are  before  you. 

Presiding  Officer.  (Addressing  the  Grand  Lodge.)  Brethren,  you 
have  heard  the  names  of  your  officers  elect  reported  by 
the  Grand  .Secretary.  If  any  member  of  the  Grand 
Lodge  knows  of  any  just  reason  why  either  of  these 
officers  should  not  be  installed,  let  him  speak  now,  or 
forever  after  be  silent. 

If  no  objections  be  made,  he  proceeds; 

We  are  happy  to  observe  that  you  still  approve  the 
choice  made,  and  we  will  now  proceed  to  install  them. 


The  Grand  Officers  elect  will  be  seated. 


4 


CEREMONIALS. 


Presiding  Officer.  Brother  Grand  Marshal,  you  will 
present  the  Grand  Master  elect. 

Grand  Marshal.  Most  Worshipful  Grand  Master,  I 

have  the  honor  to  present  Brother  for 

installation,  who  has  been  duly  elected  Most  Worship- 
ful Grand  Master  of  Masons  of  the  State  of  Illinois. 

Presiding  Ofilcer.  As  we  are  now  upon  the  threshold 
of  a great  and  important  undertaking.  Masonic  teach- 
ings require  that  we  should  bow  in  solemn  prayer  with 
our  Right  Worshipful  Grand  Chaplain. 

Grand  Chaplain.  Let  us  pray. 

The  following,  or  an  appropriate  extemporaneous  prayer  may  be  given ; 

Eternal  source  of  Life  and  Light!  We  humbly  im- 
plore Thy  divine  favor  upon  this  occasion,  and  upon 
the  institution  in  whose  services  we  are  now  engaged. 
Make  it  yet  more  helpful  and  beneficial  to  our  race, 
and  inspire  all  who  are  connected  with  it  with  an  ardent 
love  to  I'hee,  to  each  other,  and  to  every  member  of 
the  human  family.  Bless  now  Thy  servant  before 
Thee,  who  is  about  to  assume  a new  and  important 
relation  to  his  brethren.  Give  him  wisdom,  give 
him  strength,  give  him  love.  Enable  him  so  to 
rule,  that  he  may  keep  in  view  the  best  interests 
of  the  great  brotherhood,  now  about  to  be  com- 
mitted to  his  charge,  d'each  him  to  feel  that  he  is 
about  to  assume  great  and  trying  responsibilities,  and 
enable  him  so  to  discharge  them  as  to  win  all  hearts. 
Grant  d'hy  blessing  upon  the  brethren  who  are  to  be 
associated  with  him  in  office.  May  they  feel  a just 


INSTALLATION  OF  GRAND  OFFICERS. 


5 


sense  of  their  accountability  to  Thee  and  to  the  Fra- 
ternity; and  may  they  ever  be  faithful  and  zealous,  and 
assist  to  uphold  the  hands  of  their  chief  in  all  good 
deeds.  In  Thee,  O God,  as  in  the  days  of  an  appren- 
ticeship, do  we  put  our  trust.  Be  Thou  our  friend, 
conductor  and  guide  in  the  unseen  vicissitudes  of  life 
before  us,  and  bring  us  all  at  last  to  see  the  Great  Light, 
inaccessible  and  full  of  glory,  in  Thy  presence,  where 
we  shall  behold  Thee  with  unclouded  vision  for  ever- 
more. Amen. 

Response  by  the  brethren.  So  mote  it  be. 

Presiding  Officer.  Most  Worshipful  Brother,  we 
most  cordially  congratulate  you  upon  your  election 
(or re-election)  to  this,  the  iTiost  distinguished  and  important 
office  within  the  gift  of  Masons.  The  confidence  dis- 
played by  the  members  of  the  Grand  Lodge  in  elect- 
ing (or  again  electing)  you  to  supreiiie  commancl,  is  an  ample 
guarantee  to  the  Masonic  world  ’ of  your  wisdom  and 
your  worth.  You  cannot,  my  brother,  but  be  aware  of 
the  deep  and  solemn  importance  of  the  station  you  are 
now  about  to  assume,  (or re-assume,)  nor  of  the  many  cares 
and  perplexities  which  attend  its  unequaled  honors. 
These  perplexities,  however,  will  be  greatly  alleviated 
by  the  affectionate  sympathy  and  active  assistance  of 
your  brethren,  who  have  full  confidence  that  you  will 
discharge  the  important  duties  of  your  station  with 
credit  to  yourself  and  honor  to  the  Fraternity.  1 will 
now  proceed  to  administer  to  you  the  obligation  per- 
taining to  your  office. 

The  members  of  the  Grand  Lodge  are  called  up. 


6 


CEREMONIALS. 


You  solemnly  promise,  in  the  presence  of  Almighty 
God,  and  of  this  Grand  Lodge  of  Free  and  Accepted 
Masons,  that  you  will,  to  the  best  of  your  ability,  faith- 
fully and  impartially  perform  all  the  duties  incumbent 
on  your  office;  that  you  will  conform  to  the  constitu- 
tion, laws,  rules  and  regulations  of  this  Most  Worship- 
ful Grand  Lodge;  and  that  you  will  enforce  a strict 
obedience  to  the  same,  from  all  subject  to  your  authority. 

Gi'-aiid  Master  Elect.  All  this  do  I promise,  God 
being  my  help. 

Presiding  Officer.  I now.  Most  Worshipful  Brother, 
have  the  honor  to  invest  you  with  the  jewel  of  your 
office.  1 also  present  you  with  the  gavel,  the  emblem  of 
your  Masonic  authority,  and  welcome  you  (clasps ws hand) 
to  the  East  of  the  Most  Worshipful  Grand  Lodge  of 
Illinois,  and  ask  the  privilege  of  being  the  first  to  assure 
you  of  my  fealty  and  obedience. 

The  Grand  Master  is  thea  covered,  and  the  Presiding  Officer  uncovers. 

Presiding  Officer.  I now  hail,  salute  and  proclaim 
you  Grand  Master  of  Masons  for  the  State  of  Illinois. 

Brethren  of  Illinois,  behold  your  Grand  Master. 

Most  Worshipful  Grand  Master,  behold  your  breth- 
ren. 

Brethren  join  in  giving  the  grand  honors. 

The  Grand  Master  will  seat  the  brethren.  Af'ter  which  he  may  address 
the  Grand  Lodge ; and  upon  the  conclusion  of  the  address  the  installation 
will  proceed. 

Presiding  Officer.  Brother  Grand  Marshal,  you  will 
present  the  Deputy  Grand  Master  elect. 


INSTALLATION  OF  GRAND  OFFICERS. 


/ 


(The  Grand  Marshal  presents  the  Deputy  Grand  Master  and  the  remain- 
ing Grand  Officers  in  the  order  of  their  rank,  in  like  manner  as  he  presented 
the  Grand  Master.  As  each  officer  is  installed,  he  will  conduct  him  to  his 
station  or  place,  during  which  there  should  be  instrumental  music.)  The 
Presiding  Officer  will  deliver  the  several  addresses'  as  follows: 


DEPUTY  GRAND  MASTER. 

Right  Worshipful  Brother:  The  office  to  which 
you  have  been  elected  is  one  of  high  dignity,  and 
may  become  one  of  great  importance;  for,  in  the 
absence  of  the  Grand  Master  from  the  Communica- 
tions of  the  Grand  Lodge,  or  from  the  limits  of  its 
jurisdiction,  you  are  by  law  invested  with  his  powers, 
and  may  exercise  its  comprehensive  prerogatives.  In 
view  of  such  emergencies,  allow  us  to  remind  you  of 
the  duty  devolving  on  you,  to  be  thoroughly  prepared 
amply  to  fill  his  distinguished  position,  with  honor  to 
yourself  and  profit  to  the  Craft.  I now,  with  much 
pleasure,  invest  you  with  your  jewel,  and  congratulate 
you  upon  assuming  your  seat  upon  the  right  of  the 
Grand  Master  in  the  East. 

SENIOR  GRAND  WARDEN. 

Right  Worshipful  Brother:  By  the  suffrages 
of  the  members  of  the  Grand  Lodge,  you  have  been 
elected  their  Senior  Grand  Warden.  Be  assiduous  in 
the  performance  of  your  duties,  so  that  you  may  be 
a strength  and  support  to  the  Grand  Master.  I now 
invest  you  with  the  jewel  of  your  office.  In  the  absence 
of  your  superior  officers  you  will  have  supreme  com- 
mand. While  in  your  present  position,  look  well  to 
THE  West. 


8 


CEREMONIALS. 


JUNIOR  GRAND  WARDEN. 

Right  Worshipful  Brother;  Your  brethren  have 
shown  their  confidence  in  your  fidelity,  by  electing  you 
their  Junior  Grand  Warden;  it  affords  me  much  pleasure 
to  invest  you  with  the  jewel  of  your  office. 

Your  previous  devotion  to  the  duties  of  Freemasonry, 
is  a sufficient  guarantee  that  you  will  be  a vigilant 
Warden,  and  that  you  will  look  well  to  the  South. 

GRAND  TREASURER. 

Right  Worshipful  Brother:  I am  happy  to  have 
the  privilege  of  investing  you  with  the  jewel  of  your 
office  as  Treasurer  of  the  Grand  Lodge,  and  to  place 
in  your  hands  the  books  and  treasure  belonging  to 
your  office.  Your  unimpeached  integrity  satisfies  me 
that  the  trust  is  wisely  reposed,  and  your  familiarity 
with  the  duties  of  your  office  makes  it  unnecessary  that 
1 should  name  them.  I know  that  you  will  discharge 
them  with  fidelity. 


GRAND  SECRETARV. 

Right  Worshipful  Brother:  With  pleasure  I 
invest  you  with  your  jewel,  as  Grand  Secretary  of  the 
Grand  Lodge,  and  place  in  your  charge  its  archives  and 
records. 

The  duties  of  Grand  Secretary  have  generally  been 
performed  with  distinguished  ability  and  untiring- 
industry,  and  I have  a firm  belief  that  the  same  devo- 
tion to  duty  will  continue  unchanged  during  your  in- 
cumbency. 


INSTALI>ATI()N’  OK  GRAxMl)  OKKICERS. 


9 


(iRAND  CHAPLAIN. 

Reverend  and  Right  Worshipful  Brother:  I 
have  the  honor  to  invest  you  with  the  jewel  of  your 
sacred  office.  In  the  discharge  of  your  duties  you  will 
be  required  to  lead  the  devotional  exercises  of  our 
Grand  Communications,  and  perform  the  sacred  func- 
tions of  your  holy  calling  at  our  public  ceremonies. 

We  are  sure,  that  in  ministering  at  the  Masonic  altar, 
the  services  you  may  perform  will  lose  nothing  of  their 
vital  influence,  because  they  are  practiced  in  that  spirit 
of  universal  tolerance  which  distinguishes  our  institution. 

The  profession  which  you  have  chosen  for  your  call- 
ing in  life,  is  the  best  guarantee  that  you  will  discharge 
the  duties  of  your  present  appointment  with  steadfast- 
ness and  perseverance  in  well-doing.  Your  station  in 
the  Grand  Lodge  is  in  the  East,  and  on  the  left  of  the 
Grand  Master. 


grand  orator. 

Right  Worshipful  Brother:  You  have  been  ap- 
pointed to  the  office  of  Grand  Orator.  1 invest  you 
with  the  jewel  of  your  office. 

Your  reputation  as  a wise  and  discreet  Freemason 
has  designated  you  for  this  post  of  distinction.  You 
enter  upon  the  discharge  of  the  duties  of  your  office 
with  the  assurance  of  the  confidence  and  respect  of 
your  brethren.  Be  it  your  care  to  merit  this  high  meed, 
ever  bearing  in  mind  the  first  lesson  in  Masonry : 
“ 'I  ruth  is  a divine  attribute  ; the  foundation  of  every 
virtue.” 


lO 


CEREMONIALS. 


DEPUTY  GRAND  SECRETARY. 

Worshipful  Brother:  You  have  been  appointed 
Deputy  Grand  Secretary,  and  we  now  invest  you  with 
the  jewel  of  your  office.  Your  duties,  though  varied 
and  important,  will  be  performed  under  the  immediate 
supervision  of  the  Grand  Secretary.  It  is  essentially 
necessary  that  courtesy  and  patience  should  mark  your 
intercourse  with  the  brethren,  while  promptitude  and 
fidelity  in  the  discharge  of  your  duties  are  not  less  im- 
portant qualities.  You  station  in  the  Grand  Lodge  is 
near  the  Grand  Secretary. 

grand  pursuivant. 

Worshipful  Brother:  You  have  been  appointed 
Grand  Pursuivant,  and  we  now  invest  you  with  the 
jewel  of  your  office.  Your  station  is  near  the  door, 
where  you  will  receive  all  reports  from  the  Grand 
Tyler,  and  announce  the  name  and  Masonic  rank  of  all 
who  desire  admission,  communicating  the  same  to  the 
Junior  Grand  Deacon. 

GRAND  MARSHAL. 

Worshipful  Brother:  I now  invest  you  wuth 
your  jewel  as  Grand  Marshal  of  this  Grand  Lodge,  and 
present  you  with  this  baton,  as  the  symbol  of  your 
authority.  You  will  make  all  proclamations  directed 
by  the  Grand  Master,  and  will  arrange  and  conduct  the 
processions  of  the  Grand  Lodge.  Your  regard  for 
good  order  will  prompt  you  in  the  faithful  discharge  of 
your  duties. 


INSTALLATION  OF  GRAND  OFFICERS. 


I I 


GRAND  STANDARD  BEARER. 

Worshipful  Brother:  Your  duty  is  to  carry  and 
uphold  the  banner  of  the  Grand  Lodge  on  occasions  of 
ceremony  and  public  processions.  Receive  the  jewel 
of  your  office,  and  let  it  remind  you  that  you  are  never 
to  part  with  the  Standard,  when  under  your  care,  while 
you  have  life  to  defend  it. 

GRAND  SWORD  BEARER. 

Worshipful  Brother:  The  sword  which  you  will 
bear  in  all  processions  of  the  Grand  Lodge,  is  the  time- 
honored  symbol  of  justice  and  authority.  It  is  also  the 
guardian  and  protector  of  the  Standard  of  the  Grand 
Lodge.  Be  faithful  to  your  trust.  You  will  be  invested 
with  the  jewel  of  your  office,  which  should  remind  you 
of  your  duty. 

GRAND  DEACONS. 

WoRSHiPFui.  Brethren  : I invest  you,  as  Senior 
and  Junior  Grand  Deacons  of  the  Grand  Lodge,  with 
these  jewels  of  your  office,  and  with  these  rods  as  em- 
blems of  your  authority.  You  will  act  as  proxies  of 
the  Grand  Master  and  Wardens  in  the  more  active 
duties  of  the  Grand  Lodge.  Your  devotion  to  Masonry 
will  prompt  you  to  vigilance  and  discretion  in  the  per- 
formance of  your  duties. 

GRAND  STEWARDS. 

Worshipful  Brethren  : You  have  been  appointed 
Stewards  of  this  Grand  Lodge,  and  we  now  inve.st  you 
with  the  jewels  of  your  office,  and  place  in  your  hands 


CEREMONIALS. 


I 2 


the  rods  as  ensigns  of  your  station.  It  is  your  duty  to 
provide  for  the  comfort  and  convenience  of  the  mem- 
bers of  the  Grand  Lodge,  when  in  annual  session  ; and 
to  assist  the  Deacons  and  other  officers  of  the  Grand 
I.odge  in  the  performance  of  their  duties.  We  feel 
confident  that  your  regard  for  your  brethren  will  incite 
you  to  a prompt  discharge  of  this  trust. 

GRAND  TYLER. 

WoKSHii'FUL  Brother:  Your  ofhce  is  a most  im- 
portant one,  and  requires  unremitting  watchfulness  and 
care.  The  Grand  Lodge,  appreciating  your  fidelity  and 
activity,  has  reposed  in  you  the  great  trust  of  guarding 
the  sanctuary  from  the  approach  of  cowans  and  eaves- 
droppers. Be  vigilant,  preserve  the  utmost  order  and 
decorum  within  the  precincts  of  your  station,  and  suffer 
none  to  pass  or  repass  without  proper  qualification  and 
due  permission. 

It  is  your  duty  to  guard  and  protect  the  jewels,  rega- 
lia, clothing,  and  other  property  of  the  Grand  Lodge 
placed  in  your  charge  during  vacation ; and,  under  the 
direction  of  the  Grand  Master,  to  have  them  always 
ready  for  use. 

You  will  now  be  invested  with  the  jewel  and  imple- 
ment of  your  office,  and  repair  to  your  station. 

PrcsidiiLg  Officer.  Worshipful  Grand  Marshal,  I 
now  declare  the  several  officers  of  the  Grand  Lodge  of 
the  State  of  Illinois  duly  installed  into  office  for  the 
ensuing  year  in  ample  form.  You  will,  therefore, 
proclaim  the  same  to  the  brethren,  that  they,  having 


INSTALLATION  OF  GRAND  OFFICERS. 


T3 


due  notice  thereof,  may  govern  themselves  accord- 
ingly. 

Presiding  Officer  calls  up  the  brethren. 

Grand  Marshal.  By  order  of  the  Most  Worshipful 
Grand  Master,  and  by  the  authority  of  the  Grand  Lodge 
of  the  Most  Ancient  and  Honorable  P'raternity  of  Free 
and  Accepted  Masons  of  the  State  of  Illinois,  1 now 
proclaim  that  its  Grand  Officers  are  now  amply  installed 
in  their  respective  stations. 

Response  by  the  Brethren.  So  mote  it  be. 

Grand  Marshal.  Brethren  of  the  Grand  Lodge,  join 
in  giving  the  grand  honors. 


CEREMONY 


FOR 

INSTITUTING  A LODGE  UNDER  DISPENSATION. 


The  Dispensation  for  the  establishment  of  a new  Lodge  is  issued  by  the 
Grand  Master,  and  is  sent  to  the  brother  named  in  the  instrument  as  Master, 
who  should,  as  soon  as  convenient,  notify  the  District  Deputy  Grand  Master 
of  its  reception,  requesting  that  officer  to  name  the  time  when  he  can  attend 
to  institute  the  Lodge.*  The  members  named  in  the  dispensation  are  then 
notified  by  the  Master  to  assemble  in  their  Lodge  room  at  the  time  deter- 
mined upon.  After  the  brethren  are  assembled,  the  D.  D.  Grand  Master  will 
assume  the  ‘ ‘ East  ” and  announce  the  objects  of  the  meeting.  He  then  causes 
the  I^etter  of  Dispensation  to  be  read,  after  which  the  names  of  the  officers 
appointed  by  the  Master  of  the  new  Lodge  will  be  announced.  As  these 
names  are  called,  the  officers  will  form  in  line  near  and  facing  the  East,  when 
the  D.  D.  Grand  Master  will  invest  each  officer  with  his  jewel.  The  new 
Master  will  then  be  seated  in  the  East,  on  the  right  of  the  D.  D.  Grand  Mas- 
ter. The  Wardens  and  other  officers  will  take  their  respective  stations. f 
The  D.  D.  Grand  Master  will  then  open  the  Lodge  on  the  three  degrees  of 
Masonry,  and  deliver  to  the  officers  and  brethren  the  following 


CHARGES 


TO  THE  O 


S AND  BRETHREN. 


Worshipful  Mastpir  : (WhorUes.)  The  Grand  Lodge 
having  committed  to  your  care  the  superintendence  and 
government  of  the  brethren  who  are  to  compose  this 


"'"If  the  D.  D.  Grand  Master  cannot  attend,  he  may  deputize  some  competent  Past  Master,  or 
instruct  the  Master  of  the  Lodge  to  select  a qualified  brother  to  open  the  new  Lodge. 

f These  movements  should  be  accompanied  with  music,  if  convenient. 


cp:rem()Nials. 


1 6 


new  Lodge,  you  cannot  be  insensible  of  the  obligations 
which  devolve  on  you  as  their  head,  nor  of  your  respon- 
sibility for  the  faithful  discharge  of  the  important  duties 
annexed  to  your  appointment. 

The  honor,  reputation  and  usefulness  of  your  Lodge 
will  materially  depend  upon  the  skill  and  assiduity  with 
which  you  manage  its  concerns,  whilst  the  happiness  of 
its  members  will  be  generally  promoted  in  proportion  to 
the  zeal  and  ability  with  which  you  propogate  the  gen- 
uine principles  of  our  institution. 

P'or  a pattern  for  imitation,  consider  the  great  lumi- 
nary of  nature,  which,  rising  in  the  East,  regularly  dif- 
fuses light  and  lustre  to  all  within  its  circle.  In  like 
manner  it  is  your  province  to  spread  light  and  instruc- 
tion to  the  brethren  of  your  Lodge.  Forcibly  impress 
upon  them  the  dignity  and  high  importance  of  Ma.sonry, 
and  seriously  admonish  them  never  to  disgrace  it. 
Charge  them  to  practice  o^U  of  the  Lodge  those  duties 
which  they  have  been  taught  in  it,  and  by  amiable, 
discreet  and  virtuous  conduct,  to  convince  mankind  of 
the  goodness  of  the  institution  ; so  that,  when  a person 
is  said  to  be  a member  of  it,  the  world  may  know  that 
he  is  one  to  whom  the  burthened  heart  may  pour  out 
its  sorrows  ; to  whom  distress  t^y  prefer  its  suit ; whose 
hand  is  guided  by  ju.stice,  and  who.se  heart  is  expanded 
by  benevolence.  In  short,  by  a diligent  observance  of 
the  By-Laws  of  your  Lodge,  the  Constitutions  of  Ma- 
sonry, and,  above  all,  the  Holy  Scriptures,  which  are 
given  as  a rule  and  guide  to  your  faith,  you  will  be 
enabled  to  acquit  yourself  with  honor  and  reputation. 


INSTITUTING  IXIDGKS  UNDER  DISPENSATION. 


17 


CHARGE  TO  THE  WARDENS. 

Brethren  Senior  and  Junior  Wardens:  (Whoare 
called  up  by  two  knocks.)  YouRre  toowcll  acquaintccl  with  the 
principles  of  Masonry  to  warrant  any  distrust  that  you 
will  be  found  wanting  in  the  discharge  of  your  respect- 
ive duties.  What  you  have  seen  praiseworthy  in  others 
you  should  carefully  imitate,  and  what  in  them  may 
have  appeared  defective,  you  should  in  yourselves 
amend.  You  should  be  examples  of  good  order  and 
regularity,  for  it  is  only  by  a due  regard  to  the  laws,  in 
your  own  conduct,  that  you  can  expect  obedience  to 
them  from  others.  You  are  assiduously  to  assist  the 
Master  in  the  discharge  of  his  trust,  diffusing  light  and 
imparting  knowledge  to  all  whom  he  .shall  place  under 
your  care.  In  the  absence  of  the  Master  you  will  suc- 
ceed to  higher  duties ; your  acquirements  must  there- 
fore be  such  that  the  Craft  may  never  suffer  for  want 
of  proper  instruction.  From  the  spirit  which  you  have 
hitherto  evinced,  I entertain  no  doubt  that  your  future 
conduct  will  be  such  as  to  merit  the  applause  of  your 
brethren,  and  the  testimony  of  a good  conscience. 

CHARGE  TO  THE  BRETHREN  OF  THE  LODGE. 

(Three knocks.)  BRETHREN  OE  THIS  New  Lodge:  Such  is 
the  nature  of  our  Constitutions,  that  as  some  must,  of 
necessity,  rule  and  teach,  so  others  mu.st,  of  course, 
learn  to  submit  and  obey.  Humility,  in  both,  is  an 
essential  duty.  The  officers  who  are  appointed  to  gov- 
ern your  Lodge  are  sufficiently  conversant  with  the 
rules  of  propriety,  and  the  laws  of  the  institution,  to 
avoid  exceeding  the  powers  with  which  they  are 


i8 


CKkEMONIALS. 


intrusted,  and  you  are  of  too  generous  disposition  to 
envy  their  preferment.  I therefore  trust  that  you  will 
have  but  one  aim — to  please  each  other,  and  unite  in 
the  grand  design  of  being  happy  and  communicating 
happiness. 

Finally,  my  brethren,  as  this  association  has  been 
formed  and  perfected  in  so  much  unanimity  and  con- 
cord, in  which  we  greatly  rejoice,  so  may  it  long  con- 
tinue. May  you  long  enjoy  every  sati.sfaction  and 
light  which  disinterested  friendship  can  afford.  May 
kindness  and  brotherly  affection  distinguish  your  con- 
duct as  men  and  Masons.  And  may  the  tenets  of  our 
profession  be  transmitted  through  your  Lodge,  pure 
and  unimpaired,  from  generation  to  generation. 

The  D.  D.  Grand  Master  may  conclude  with  such  personal  instructions 
and  advice  as  he  deems  proper  for  the  occasion;  and  then,  in  the  name  and 
by  the  authority  of  the  Most  Worshipful  Grand  Master,  he  declares  the  new 
Lodge  duly  instituted  and  properly  prepared  for  the  transaction  ot  such  bus- 
iness as  may  lawfully  come  before  it,  handing  to  the  Worshipful  Master  the 
Dispensation  and  the  gavel  of  authority,  he  will  resign  the  Chair,  and  take 
the  seat  vacated  by  the  Master.  The  brethren  are  seated,  and  the  Lodge 
proceeds  with  its  business. 


CEREMONIES 


O F 

■ CONSTITUTING  A NEW  LODGE. 


When  a lawful  number  of  Master  Masons  have  organized  under  the  rules 
and  regulations  of  the  Grand  Lodge,  and  worked  a certain  time  as  a Lodge, 
by  authority  of  a letter  of  dispensation,  they  may  petition  the  Grand  Lodge, 
at  its  Annual  Communication,  for  a charter.  Every  letter  of  dispensation 
expires  by  limitation,  and  when  the  term  of  probation  expires,  the  petitioners 
cannot  convene  as  a Lodge  of  Masons,  until  the  Grand  Lodge  shall  have 
granted  a charter  to  the  petitioners,  or  continued  the  letter  of  dispensation. 
If  the  prayer  of  the  petitioners  shall  be  granted,  a charter  will  issue ; but  the 
brethren  to  whom  it  is  issued  cannot  convene  under  its  authority  until  they 
shall  be  constituted  into  a regular  Lodge,  and  the  officers  installed.  The 
ceremony  of  constituting  a Lodge  is  conducted  by  the  Grand  Master  in  per- 
son, or  by  some  brother  acting  under  a written  authority. 

At  the  time  appointed  the  Grand  Master,  or  his  special  proxy,  will  ap- 
point a sufficient  number  of  competent  brethren*  to  form  an  Occasional 
Grand  Lodge,  and  assemble  the  same  in  a convenient  room,  when  the  Grand 
Lodge  will  be  opened  on  the  third  degree. 

The  brethren  who  are  to  compose  the  new  Lodge  will  assemble  in  their 
hall,  properly  clothed.  The  officers  should  occupy  seats  on  the  south  side  of 


Should  any  of  the  regular  officers  of  the  Grand  Lodge  be  present,  they  will,  of  course,  take 
precedence  of  other  brethren  in  filling  their  respective  stations.  In  the  absence  of  Grand  Officers, 
Past  Masters  and  visiting  brethren,  as  far  as  practicable,  should  be  selected  to  form  a Grand 
Lodge. 


20 


CEREMONIALS. 


the  hall,  extending  from  the  Secretary’s  place,  on  a line  running  West;  the 
W.  M.  will  be  seated  temporarily  in  the  East,  and  should  appoint  a brother 
to  act  as  Marshal  for  the  new  Lodge  during  the  ceremonies.*  The  W.  M. 
will  instruct  the  Marshal  of  the  Lodge  to  repair  to  the  apartment  of  the 
Grand  Lodge,  and  inform  the  M.  W.  Grand  Master  that — 


“ A number  of  brethren,  duly  instructed  in  the  mys- 
teries of  Freemasonry,  having  assembled  together  at 
stated  periods,  for  some  time  past,  by  virtue  of  a dispen- 
sation granted  them  for  that  purpose ; that  their  pro- 
ceedings having  received  the  approbation  of  the  Most 
Worshipful  Grand  Lodge,  they  have  been  granted  a 
charter,  and  now  desire  to  be  consecrated  and  consti- 
tuted into  a regular  Lodge,  under  the  name  of 

Lodge,  No , and  have  their  officers  installed  agree- 

ably to  the  ancient  usages  and  customs  of  the  Craft,  for 
which  purpose  they  are  now  met,  and  await  the  pleasure 
of  the  Most  Worshipful  Grand  Master.” 

Grand  Master.  It  is  well;  return  and  inform  the 
brethren  that  in  due  time  we  will  comply  with  their 
request. 


Upon  retirement  of  the  Messenger,  the  Grand  Lodge  is  formed  in 
procession  under  the  direction  of  the  Grand  Marshal,  in  the  following 
order  :•( 


* These  ceremonies  may  be  conducted  in  public  or  private. 


In  constituting  a l^odge,  a small  table  or  stand  should  be  placed  in  the  hall,  between  the  altar 
and  the  East,  on  which  to  place  the  symbol  of  the  Lodge.  This  symbol  shouM  be  a rectangular 
box,  about  ten  by  twenty-five  inches,  covered  with  some  kind  of  white  fabric.  It  should  be  carried 
into  the  hall  with  the  Grand  Lodge. 


t Should  circumstances  require,  some  of  the  subordinate  officers  enumerated  may  be 
omitted. 


CONSTITUTING  A NEW  I.ODGE. 


2 I 


Grand  Tyler; 

(drawn  sword.) 

The  Symbol  of  the  Lodge,  covered; 

(carried  by  four  brethren  with  white  aprons.) 


Grand  Steward,  Grand  Pursuivant,  Grand  Steward; 

(carrying  Bible,  Square  and  (Jompass,  upon  a cushion.) 

Grand  Orator,  Grand  Chaplain, 

Grand  Secretary,  Grand  Treasurer, 

Junior  Grand  Warden,  Sb:nior  Grand  Warden. 

(carrying  vessel  of  oil.)  (carrying  vessel  of  wine.) 

Deputy  Grand  Master, 

(carrying  vessel  of  corn.) 


Book  of  Constitutions, 

(carried  by  Master  of  oldest  Lodge.) 


Junior  Grand  Db:acon,  GRAND  MASTER,  Sb:nior  Grand  Deacon, 

(carrying  rod.)  (carrying  rod.) 

Grand  Standard  Bb:arer. 

Grand  Sword  Bb:arer, 

(carrying  drawn  sword.) 


The  Grand  Lodge  will  now  move  to  the  Lodge  hall.  Upon  entering, 
the  W.  M.,  with  his  gavel,  will  call  up  the  brethren.  The  procession  moves 
toward  the  East,  passing  the  altar  on  the  West  and  North,  during  which 
there  should  be  appropriate  instrumental  music.  When  the  Grand  Tyler 
reaches  the  foot  of  the  dais  in  the  East,  the  procession  will  halt,  and  under 
the  direction  of  the  W.  M.  of  the  new  Lodge,  the  brethren  will  unite  in  re- 
ceiving the  Grand  Lodge  with  the  full  grand  honors,  * after  which,  the 
symbol-of  the  Lodge  will  be  placed  on  the  stand,  the  bearers  thereof  taking 
their  places  among  the  brethren  of  the  Lodge ; the  three  great  lights  are 
placed  on  the  altar ; the  Book  of  Constitutions  placed  upon  the  pedestal  in 
the  East ; and  the  vessels  containing  the  elements  of  consecration  are  placed 
on  the  symbol  of  the  Lodge.  The  officers  of  the  Grand  Lodge  will  then 
open  to  the  right  and  left,  facing  inward.  The  Grand  Marshal  and  Grand 
Tyler  will  pass  down  the  lines  to  the  Grand  Master,  who  (uncovered)  will  be 
conducted  to  the  East.  Arriving  at  the  foot  of  the  dais  the  Marshal 
and  Tyler  will  open  to  the  right  and  left,  the  Grand  Master  passing 


* The  FULL  GRAND  HONORS  are  given  by  striking  the  palms  of  the  hands  together  sharply, 
nine  times three  times  three\  beginning  by  striking  the  left  hand  with  the  right,  times; 

then  striking  the  right  hand  three  times,  and  finally  the  left.  These  grand  honors  are  given  in 
all  Masonic  ceremonies  (except  at  funerals)  where  they  are  appropriate  ; and  are  given  in  the  man- 
ner described,  viz  : Once,  Twice,  Thrice,  or  in  full,  as  occasion  may  require.  In  ceremonies 
where  they  are  proper  the  grand  honors  should  be  given  with  precision  by  all  Masons  present, 
except  those  to  whom  they  may  be  extended. 


22 


CEREMONIALS. 


between  them  will  ascend  to  his  station,  the  W.  M.  vacating  the  chair,  uncov- 
ering, and  extending  his  hand  to  the  Grand  Master,  will  assist  him  to  his 
vSeat;  the  W.  M.  will  then  take  his  place  with  the  brethren  to  be  installed. 
The  Grand  Marshal,  alone,  returns  through  the  lines,  and  conducts  the  Deputy 
Grand  Master,  Grand  Chaplain  and  Grand  Orator  to  their  respective  stations. 
The  Grand  Marshal  then  instructs  the  other  Grand  Officers  to  repair  to  their 
respective  stations ; after  which  the  Grand  Master  will  .seat  the  brethren.* 
When  the  Grand  Officers  are  seated,  the  Deputy  Grand  Master  will  instruct 
the  officers  and  members  of  the  new  Lodge  to  rise,  after  which  he  will  ad- 
dress the  Grand  Master  as  follows : 

Most  Worshipful  Grand  Master  : A number 
of  brethren  who  are  now  before  you,  duly  instructed  in 
the  mysteries  of  Masonry,  having  assembled  together 
at  stated  periods,  for  some  time  past,  by  virtue  of  a dis- 
pensation granted  to  them  for  that  purpose,  do  now 
desire  to  be  constituted  into  a Regular  Lodge, 
agreeably  to  ancient  usage,  and  the  customs  of  the 
Fraternity. 

Grand  Master.  It  is  well.  Right  Worshipful  Dep- 
uty Grand  Master. 

The  brethren  of  the  new  Lodge  resume  their  seats.  The  Grand  Master 
then  orders  the  Grand  Secretary  to  read  the  charter  in  full ; after  which  the 
Grand  Master  says: 

Upon  due  deliberation,  the  Grand  Lodge  having 
granted  the  brethren  of  this  new  lodge  a warrant  estab- 
lishing and  confirming  them  in  the  rights  and  privileges 
of  a regularly  constituted  Lodge,  we  shall,  agreeably 
to  their  request,  now  proceed,  according  to  ancient 
usage,  to  Constitute  these  brethren  into  a Regular 
Lodge ; but  before  proceeding  with  these  important 
ceremonies,  it  is  our  duty  to  invoke  the  blessing  of 
Almighty  God. 

The  Grand  Master  then  calls  up  the  assembly,  and  says; 

All  present  will  give  attention  while  our  Grand 
Chaplain  addresses  the  Throne  of  Grace. 

*Puring  the  seating  of  the  Grand  Officers  there  should  be  appropriate  instrumental  music, 


CONSTITUTING  A NKW  L01)(;E. 


23 


The  Grand  Chaplain  will  then  offer  the  following,  or  some  extemporan- 
eous prayer  appropriate  to  the  occasion : 

Great,  Adorable,  and  Supreme  Being : We  praise 
Thee  for  all  Thy  mercies,  and  especially  for  giving  us 
desires  to  enjoy,  and  powers  of  enjoying,  the  delights 
of  society. 

The  affections  which  Thou  hast  implanted  in  us,  and 
which  we  cannot  destroy  without  violence  to  our  nature, 
are  among  the  chief  blessings  which  Thy  benign  wisdom 
hath  bestowed  upon  us. 

Help  us  duly  to  improve  all  our  powers  to  the  pro- 
motion of  Thy  glory  in  this  world,  and  the  good  of  our 
fellow-men.  May  we  be  active  under  Thy  divine  light, 
and  dwell  in  Thy  truth. 

Extend  this  favor  to  us  who  are  now  entering  into  a 
fraternal  compact  under  peculiar  obligations;  enable  us 
to  be  faithful  to  Thee ; faithful  in  our  callings  in  life ; 
faithful  in  all  the  duties  of  the  Craft,  and  faithful  to 
each  other  as  members  of  this  society.  Take  us  under 
the  shadow  of  Thy  protection  ; and  to  Thy  service  and 
glory  may  we  consecrate  our  hearts.  May  we  always 
put  faith  in  Thee,  have  hope  in  salvation,  and  be  in 
charity  with  all  mankind.  Amen. 

Response  by  the  Brethren.  So  mote  it  be. 

This  may  be  followed  by  appropriate  vocal  and  instrumental  music. 

Grand  Master.  Brother  Grand  Marshal,  you  will 
direct  the  brethren  of  the  new  Lodge  to  their  proper 
position,  and  re-form  the  Grand  Lodge  in  procession. 

The  officers  and  a convenient  number  of  members,  of  the  new  Lodge, 
under  the  direction  of  the  Grand  Marshal,  will  form  in  single  lile,  on  the 


24 


CEREMONIALS. 


south  side  of  the  hall,  facing  West.  The  officers  of  the  Grand  Lodge  will 
form,  in  the  order  of  their  rank,  in  single  file,  on  the  north  side  of  the  hall, 
facing  East* 

The  Grand  Officers  and  brethren  of  the  Lodge  will  then  move  with  the 
sun,  around  the  symbol  of  the  Lodge,  forming  squares  open  at  the  East,  the 
brethren  forming  the  outer  square,  as  follows : 


EAST. 

O o GRAND  Q MASTER. 

O O 

O O 

O O 

O O 

O O 

o o 

o o 

o o 

O O GRAND  OEEICERS. 

O O O BRETHREN.  O 


O 

O 

O 

O 

O 

O 

O 

o 

o 

O 

o 


o 

o 

o 

o 

o 

o 

o 

o 

o 

o 

o 


ALTAR. 


These  movements  should  be  accompanied  by  solemn  music,  during  which 
the  Grand  Marshal  will,  very  slowly,  uncover  the  symbol  of  the  Lodge. 
When  the  Grand  Master  reaches  the  East,  the  lines  will  halt  and  face  inward. 
At  the  order  of  the  Grand  Master,  the  officers  of  the  Grand  Lodge, 
will  kneel  on  the  right  knee.  The  Grand  Chaplain  will  then  rehearse  the 
first  clause  of  the — 


* The  proper  officers  will  carry  the  vessels  containing  the  elements  of  consecration,  but 
the  Book  of  Constitutions,  and  great  lights,  will  be  omitted  from  the  procession  during  the 
ceremonies. 


CONSTITUTING  A NEW  LODGE. 


25 


CONSKCRATION  PRAYER. 

Great  Architect  of  the  Universe;  Maker  and  Ruler 
of  all  worlds.  Deign  from  Thy  celestial  temple,  from 
the  realms  of  light  and  glory,  to  bless  us  in  all  the  pur- 
poses of  our  present  a.ssembly.  We  humbly  invoke 
Thee  to  give  us  at  this,  and  at  all  times,  Wisdom  in  all 
our  doings,  Streiigth  of  mind  in  all  our  difficulties,  and 
the  Beauty  of  harmony  in  all  our  communications. 
Permit  us,  O Thou  author  of  life  and  light,  great  source 
of  love  and  happiness,  to  erect  this  Lodge,  and  now 
solemnly  to  consecrate  it  to  Thy  honor  and  glory. 

Response  by  the  Officers  of  the  Grand  Lodge.  As  it 
was  in  the  beginning,  is  now,  and  ever  shall  be,  world 
without  end.  Amen. 

The  Grand  Officers  will  then  rise. 

CONSECRATION. 

The  Deputy  Grand  Master  will  step  forward  and  present  the  Vessel  of 
Corn  (wheat)  to  the  Grand  Master,  who  sprinkles  a portion  of  it  upon  the 
symbol  of  the  Lodge,  and  places  the  vessel  upon  the  table.  In  like  manner 
the  Senior  Grand  Warden  presents  the  Vessel  of  Wine,  which  is  sprinkled  on 
the  Lodge;  and  the  Junior  Warden  presents  the  Vessel  of  Oil,  which  is  used 
in  the  same  manner. 

The  Grand  Master  then  orders  the  Officers  of  the  Grand  Lodge  to  kneel 
as  before,  when  the  Grand  Chaplain  will  rehearse  the  remaining  portion  of 
the  consecration  prayer: 

Grant,  O Lord,  our  God,  that  those  who  are  now 
about  to  be  invested  with  the  government  of  this  Lodge 
may  be  endowed  with  wi.sdom  to  instruct  their  brethren 
in  their  duties.  May  brotherly  love,  relief  and  truth 
always  prevail  among  the  members  of  this  l.odge. 
May  this  bond  of  union  continue  to  strengthen  the 


26 


CEREMONIALS. 


Lodges  throughout  the  world.  Bless  all  our  breth- 
ren, wherever  dispersed,  and  grant  speedy  relief  to  all 
who  are  either  oppressed  or  distressed.  We  affection- 
ately commend  to  Thee  all  the  members  of  this  whole 
family ; may  they  increase  in  grace,  in  the  knowledge 
of  Thee,  and  in  love  to  each  other.  Finally,  may  we 
finish  all  our  work  here  below,  with  Thy  approbation  ; 
and  then  may  our  transition  from  this  earthly  abode  be 
to  Thy  heavenly  temple  above,  there  to  enjoy  light  and 
glory,  and  bliss  ineffable  and  eternal.  Amen. 

Response.  {By  the  offi-cei's  of  the  Grand  Lodge.) 
As  it  was  in  the  beginning,  is  now,  and  ever  shall  be, 
world  without  end.  Amen. 

A short  piece  of  solemn  music  is  then  performed,  during  which  the 
Grand  Officers  will  rise. 


DEDICATION. 

The  Grand  Master  steps  forward,  and  extending  his  hands  over  the 
emblem  of  the  Lodge,  exclaims: 


Fo  the  memory  of  the  Holy  Saints  John,  we  dedicate 
this  Lodge.  May  every  brother  revere  their  character 
and  imitate  their  virtues. 

Response,  {by  all  the  Brethren).  As  it  was  in  the 
beginning,  is  now,  and  ever  shall  be,  world  without  end. 
Amen. 

The  Officers  of  the  Grand  Lodge  will  then  about  face,  and  stand,  while 
the  brethren  of  the  new  Lodge,  under  the  direction  of  the.  Grand  Marshal, 
make  a circuit  in  procession,  single  file,  and  salute  the  Grand  Officers  with 
their  hands  crossed  upon  their  breasts,  and  heads  slightly  bowed  while 
passing.  Upon  the  completion  of  this  ceremony,  the  brethren  will  resume 
position,  facing  inward.  The  Officers  of  the  Grand  Lodge  will  also  resume 


CONSTITUTING  A NEW  LODGE. 


27 


original  position.  The  Grand  Master  will  call  up,  with  his  gavel,  all  pres- 
ent, and  then  proceed  to 

CONSTITUTE  THE  LODGE. 

Grand  Master.  In  the  name  of  the  Most  Worship- 
ful Grand  Lodge  of  the  State  of  Illinois,  I now  consti- 
tute and  form  you,  my  beloved  brethren,  into  a regular 
Lodge  of  Free  and  Accepted  Masons.  From  hence- 
forth we  empower  you  to  meet  as  a regular  Lodge, 
constituted  in  conformity  to  the  rites  of  our  institution, 
and  the  charges  of  our  ancient  and  honorable  Fraternity; 
and  may  the  Supreme  Architect  of  the  Universe  pros- 
per, direct  and  counsel  you  in  all  your  doings. 

Response,  by  the  Brethren.  So  mote  it  be. 


The  officers  of  the  Grand  Lodge  will,  under  the  direction  of  the  Grand 
Marshal,  give  the  full  grand  honors.  (See  note  page  21.)  The  Grand 
Marshal  will  then  slowly  replace  the  covering  on  the  Lodge,  during  which  a 
choir  should  chant — 


“ Glory  be  to  God  on  High.” 

The  Grand  Marshal  will  then  conduct  the  Grand  Master  to  his  chair, 
and  instruct  the  officers  of  the  Grand  Lodge  to  resume  their  respective  sta- 
tions ; and  the  members  of  the  new  Lodge  to  resume  their  seats.  During 
these  movements  instrumental  music  should  be  performed. 


INSTALLATION  OF  OFFICEKS. 


The  installation  of  the  officers  of  a new  Lodge  follows  immediately  after 
the  ceremonies  of  constitution ; and  the  ceremony  is  therefore  conducted  by 
the  Grand  Officers;  while,  in  an  old  Lodge,  the  presence  of  the  Grand  Mas- 
ter or  other  Grand  Officer  is  not  necessary;  as  any  qualified  brother,* * * § 
with  the  assistance  of  a temporary  Grand  Marshal,  can  lawfully  conduct  the 
ceremonies  of  installation. 

This  ceremony,  like  that  of  constituting  a new  Lodge,  or  dedicating 
Masonic  halls,  may  be  conducted  in  public,  or  in  the  presence  of  Masons 
only.  If  the  latter,  there  will  be  slight  variations  in  the  phraseology  and 
ceremonies.  The  following  ceremonies  are  appropriate  for  installing  the 
officers  of  a newly  constituted  Lodge,  or  those  of  an  old  Lodge.  The  varia- 
tions necessary  to  observe,  are  noted  wherever  they  occur. 

The  Grand  Marshal  will  see  that  the  jewels  of  the  officers  to  be  installed, 
together  with  a small  Bible,  square  and  compasses,  a rule  (twenty-four  inch 
gauge),  a plumb,  line,  a book  of  Constitutions,  the  Charter,  and  a copy  of 
the  Lodge  By-Laws  are  placed  on  a table  or  stand  near  the  East,  arranged 
for  convenient  use. 

The  Grand  Master  will  then  say: 

Brother  Grand  Secretary  :f  You  will  announce 
the  names  of  the  officers  appointed;!;  to  govern  this 
new§  Lodge. 


* The  installing  officer  is  addressed  as  M.  W.  Grand  Master. 

t The  word  “ Grand  ” will  be  omitted  in  an  old  Lodge. 

X The  word  “ appointed”  is  used  for  ali  officers  in  a new  Lodge,  but  in  an  old  Lodge  the 
words  "appointed,”  " elected,”  or  " re-elected,”  are  to  be  used  as  circumstances  may  require.  In 
presenting  the  officers  for  installation,  the  Marshal  will  use  the  proper  word  as  above. 

§ The  word  "new”  should  be  used  on  occasion  of  constitution  and  installation,  but  in  the  in- 
stallation of  officers  of  an  old  Lodge,  its  name  and  number  should  be  used. 


CEREMONIALS. 


O 


As  their  names  are  called,  the  brethren  will  take  position  standing  in 
place,  as  indicated  in  ceremony  of  constitution,  page  24.  After  the  roll  of 
officers  is  called,  the  Grand  Master  will  rise  and  say: 

Brethren  of Lodge:  You  have  heard  the 

names  of  the  brethren  who  have  been  selected  as  officers 
of  your  Lodge  for  the  ensuing  term.*  If  any  brother 
present  knows  of  any  just  cause  why  either  of  the 
brethren  should  not  be  installed  into  office,  he  will 
make  it  known  now.f 

Grand  Master,  continuing,  says: 

* 

R.  W.  Deputy  Grand  Ma.ster:  (who  rises.;  Are  you 
satisfied  that  the  brother  nominated  t in  the  warrant 
is  eligible,  and  well  skilled  in  the  noble  science  and 
royal  art  ? 

Deputy  Grand  Master.  I am  so  satisfied,  M.  W. 
Grand  Master. 

Deputy  Grand  Master  conducts  the  new  Master  in  front  of  the  East,  and 
continues — 

And  I now  present  to  you  my  worthy  brother 

to  be  installed  Master  of  this  new  Lodge. 

I believe  him  to  be  of  good  morals,  and  of  great  skill, 
true  and  trusty;  and  as  he  is  a lover  of  the  whole  Fra- 
ternity, wheresoever  dispersed  over  the  face  of  the 


* If  in  an  old  Lodge,  the  word  year  ” should  be  substituted  for  “ term.” 

+ Should  any  objections  be  made,  either  publicly  or  privately,  to  the  installation  of  either  of  the 
brethren  named  as  officers,  the  Grand  Master,  Deputy  Grand  Master,  and  Grand  Wardens  (if  in  a 
new  lodge,)  will  retire  to  a private  room,  and  cite  the  objector  to  appear  and  give  his  reasons  for 
the  objection.  (If  in  an  old  lodge,  the  presiding  officer,  assisted  by  three  Past  Masters,  or  other 
competent  brethren,  will  pursue  the  same  course.)  In  case  the  objections  are  deemed  valid,  the  in- 
stallation of  the  brother  objected  to  must  be  deferred  ; but  the  other  officers  may  be  installed.  The 
Grand  Master  or  the  lodge  may  subsequently  make  such  orders  in  regard  to  the  objections  as 
circumstances  may  require.  Should  valid  objections  be  made  to  the  installation  of  the  brother 
named  as  W.  M.,  the  ceremony  of  installation  cannot  proceed  until  ordered  by  the  Grand  Master  or 
the  Grand  Lodge. 

I See  note  on  preceding  page  referring  to  “ appointed.” 


INSTALLATION  OF  OFFICERS. 


earth,  1 doubt  not  he  will  discharge  his  duties  with 
fidelity. 

The  Deputy  Grand  Master  resumes  his  seat. 

Gi'and  Master.  Brother  Grand  Marshal,  you  will 
place  our  brother  at  the  altar,  there  to  receive  the  ben- 
efit of  prayer,  and  to  take  his  official  obligation. 

The  Grand  Marshal  will  conduct  the  Master  elect  to  the  Altar ; cause  him 
to  kneel,  facing  the  East.  In  like  manner  the  Chaplain  is  conducted  to  the 
Altar,  where  he  kneels,  facing  the  West,"^  and  (the  brethren  being  called  up) 
offers  the  following 

PRAYER. 

Most  Holy  and  Glorious  Lord  God!  We  approach 
Thee  with  reverence,  and  implore  Thy  blessing  on  this 
Brother,  appointed  to  preside  over  this  new  Lodge ; 
and  now  prostrate  before  Thee.  Fill  his  heart  with 
Thy  fear ; that  his  tongue  and  actions  may  pronounce 
Thy  glory.  Make  him  steadfast  in  Thy  service.  Grant 
him  firmness  of  mind.  Animate  his  heart  and  strengthen 
his  endeavors.  May  he  teach  Thy  judgments  and  Thy 
laws,  and  be  Thy  true  and  faithful  servant.  Bless  him, 
O Lord,  and  bless  the  work  of  his  hands.  Accept  us 
in  mercy.  Hear  Thou  our  prayer,  and  grant  our  earn- 
est supplications.  Amen. 

Response.  So  mote  it  be. 

The  Grand  Chaplain  will  rise  and  return  to  his  station ; the  Master  elect 
still  kneeling  at  the  Altar.  The  Grand  Master  rising,  and  standing  in  the 
East,  says: 

Brother : 

f You  will  now  repeat  after  me  your  official  obliga- 
tion : 


* These  movements  should  be  made  slowly,  during  which,  and  other  similar  movements  there 
should  be  solemn  music. 

t This  obligation  may  be  omitted  if  desired. 


CEREMONIALS. 


I solemnly  promise,  upon  the  honor  of  a Mason,  that 

in  the  office  of  Master  of Lodge,  No 

1 will,  to  the  best  of  my  ability,  strictly  comply  with 
the  constitutions  and  regulations  of  the  Most  Worship- 
ful Grand  Lodge  of  the  State  of  Illinois ; the  by-laws 

of Lodge,  No ; and  all  other  Ancient 

Masonic  usages,  so  far  as  the  same  shall  come  to  my 
knowledge.  Amen. 

Master  rises  in  his  place ; the  brethren  are  seated. 

[Note.  The  address  here  prescribed,  and  all  that  follows  up  to  the  fifteen  charges,  may  be 
omitted  at  discretion.] 

Grand  Master.  My  brother,  in  inducting  you  into 
your  chair  of  office,  as  a symbol  of  the  commencement 
(or coniimiation)  of  yout  govemment  of  this  Lodge,  1 am  per- 
forming a most  pleasing  duty.  By  immemorial  usage, 
and  the  irrevocable  landmarks  of  Masonry,  you  are 
installed  as  Master  of  this  Lodge,  with  powers  and 
prerogatives  which  are  of  high  importance  and  due 
solemnity.  The  good  resolutions,  which,  I doubt  not, 
you  have  formed  in  your  own  mind,  that  these  powers 
shall  not  be  abused  or  perverted  by  you,  I would  gladly 
strengthen  by  a word  of  admonition. 

The  very  consciousness  of  the  possession  of  a great 
power,  will  ever  make  a generous  mind  cautious  and 
gentle  in  its  exercise.  To  rule  has  been  the  lot  of  manj^, 
and  requires  neither  strength  of  intellect,  nor  soundness 
of  judgment;  to  rule  weli,,  has  been  the  fortune  of  but 
few;  and  may  well  be  the  object  of  an  honorable  am- 
liition.  It  is  not  by  the  strong  arm,  or  the  iron  will, 
that  obedience  and  order — the  chief  requisites  of  good 
government — are  secured  ; but  by  holding  the  key  to 
the  hearts  of  men. 


1NSTALI,AT10N  OF  OFFICERS. 


33 


I'he  office  of  Master  is  of  great  antiquity  and  respect, 
and  is  one  of  the  highest  dignities  to  which  we  may 
aspire.  Its  incumbent,  to  rule  well,  should  possess  and 
practice  several  important  requisites. 

As  a Man,  he  should  be  of  approved  integrity  and 
irreproachable  morals,  freed  from  the  dominion  of  hasty 
temper  and  ill-governed  passions ; of  good  repute  in  the 
world,  and  practicing,  as  an  example  to  his  brethren, 
the  cardinal  virtues  of  Temperance,  Fortitude,  Pru- 
dence and  Justice. 

As  a Citizen,  he  should  be  loyal  to  his  government ; 
obedient  to  its  laws ; prompt  in  the  duties  he  owes  to 
society ; and  a pattern  of  fidelity  in  all  social  and  do- 
mestic relations. 

As  a Mason,  he  should  cling  to  the  old  landmarks, 
and  be  sternly  opposed  to  their  infringement ; be  desi- 
rous to  learn,  and  apt  to  teach ; be  prompt  to  aid  and 
relieve ; and  be  ever  mindful  that,  though  elevated  for 
a time  above  his  fellows,  that  he  is  elevated  by  them  ; 
and  should  therefore  cultivate  everywhere,  and  at  all 
times,  the  golden  tenets  of  Brotherly  Love,  Relief 
and  Truth. 

As  an  Officer,  he  should  remember,  first  of  all,  that 
he  is  an  individual  Mason,  sharing,  in  that  respect,  a 
common  lot  with  his  brethren,  and  therefore  interested 
in  the  welfare  of  each  and  all ; be  devoid  of  undue 
ostentation  and  haughty  overbearing ; be  accessible  to 
all,  cultivating  the  closest  friendship  and  the  most  un- 
limited confidence  with  his  associate  officers;  be  eager 
to  take  counsel  with  his  brethren,  and  ready  to  give  it ; 


34 


CEREMONIALS, 


be  ready  to  reward  good ; be  devoid  of  favoritism,  and 
wholly  impartial. 

Such  are  some  of  the  most  important  qualifications 
which  a Master  should  possess,  and  the  errors  he  should 
avoid.  It  may  be  that  most,  if  not  all,  of  us  have  failed 
to  reach  this  standard ; but  it  is  attainable ; and  be  it 
your  purpose  to  reach  it,  and  be  a bright  and  shining 
example  to  those  who  shall  come  after  you. 

Mv  BROTHER,  previous  to  your  investure,  it  is  neces- 
sary that  you  should  signify  your  assent  to  those  ancient 
Charges  and  Regulations  which  point  out  the  duty  of  a 
Master  of  a Lodge.* 

“You  agree  to  be  a good  man  and  true,  and  strictly 
to  obey  the  moral  law  ? 

“You  agree  to  be  a peaceable  citizen,  and  cheerfully 
to  conform  to  the  laws  of  the  country  in  which  you 
reside  ? 

“You  promise  not  to  be  concerned  in  plots  and  con- 
spiracies against  government,  but  patiently  to  submit  to 
the  law  and  the  constituted  authorities? 

“You  agree  to  pay  a proper  respect  to  the  civil  ma- 
gistrates ; to  work  diligently,  live  creditably,  and  act 
honorably  by  all  men  ? 

“You  agree  to  hold  in  veneration  the  original  rulers 
and  patrons  of  Freemasonry,  and  their  regular  success- 
ors, supreme  and  subordinate,  according  to  their  sta- 
tions; and  to  submit  to  the  awards  and  resolutions  of 


* 'I'he  Master  to  whom  these  Charges  are  addressed,  should  signify  his  assent  to  each  of  them 
by  bowing  his  head. 


INSTALLATION  OF  OFFICERS. 


35 


your  brethren,  when  in  Lodge  convened,  in  every  case 
consistent  with  the  constitutions  of  Freemasonry? 

“You  agree  to  avoid  private  piques  and  quarrels,  and 
to  guard  against  intemperance  and  excess? 

“You  agree  to  be  cautious  in  your  behavior,  court- 
eous to  your  brethren,  and  faithful  to  your  Lodge  ? 

“You  promise  to  respect  genuine  brethren,  and  to 
discountenance  impostors,  and  all  dissenters  from  the 
original  plan  of  Masonry? 

“You  agree  to  promote  the  general  good  of  society, 
to  cultivate  the  social  virtues,  and  to  propogate  the 
knowledge  of  the  mystic  art  ? 

“You  promise  to  pay  homage  to  the  Grand  Master 
for  the  time  being,  and  to  his  officers,  when  duly  in- 
stalled ; and  strictly  to  conform  to  every  edict  of  the 
Grand  Lodge,  or  General  Assembly  of  Masons  that  is 
not  subversive  of  the  principles  and  ground-work  of 
Masonry  ? 

“You  admit  that  it  is  not  in  the  power  of  any  man, 
or  body  of  men,  to  make  innovations  in  the  body  of 
Masonry  ? 

“You  promise  a regular  attendance  on  the  committees 
and  communications  of  the  Grand  Lodge,  on  receiving 
proper  notice,  and  to  pay  attention  to  all  the  duties  of 
Masonry  on  convenient  occasions  ? 

“You  admit  that  no  new  Lodge  shall  be  formed 
without  permission  from  the  Grand  Lodge,  and  that  no 
countenance  be  given  to  any  irregular  Lodge,  or  to  any 


36 


CEREMONIALS. 


person  clandestinely  initiated  therein,  being  contrary  to 
the  Ancient  Charges  of  Freemasonry? 

“You  admit  that  no  person  can  be  regularly  made  a 
Mason  in,  or  admitted  a member  of,  any  regular  Lodge, 
without  previous  notice,  and  due  inquiry  into  his  char- 
acter ? 

“You  agree  that  no  visitors  shall  be  received  into 
your  Lodge,  without  due  examination,  and  satisfactory 
evidence  of  their  having  been  initiated  in  a regular 
Lodge  ? ” 

These  are  the  Regulations  of  Free  and  Accepted 
Masons.  Do  you  submit  to  these  Charges,  and  promise 
to  support  these  Regulations,  as  Masters  have  done  in 
all  ages  before  you  ? 

The  Master  will  answer  in  an  audible  voice : 

I do. 

Grand  Master.  Brother , in  conse- 

quence of  your  cheerful  conformity  to  the  Charges  and 
Regulations  of  the  Ancient  Fraternity,  you  are  now  to 

be  installed  Master  of Lodge,  No in 

full  confidence  of  your  care,  skill  and  capacity  to  govern 
the  same. 

Brother  Grand  Marshal,  you  will  conduct  the  Wor- 
shipful Master  to  the  foot  of  the  dais. 

While  moving  to  the  East  there  will  be  a strain  of  music. 

Grand  Master.  My  brother,  with  pleasure  I now 
invest  you  with  the  jewel  of  your  office — the  square. 


TNSTALI.ATION  OF  OFFICERS. 


37 


As  the  square  is  employed  by  the  operative  mason  to 
fit  and  adjust  the  stones  of  a building,  that  all  its  parts 
may  properly  agree,  so  you,  as  Master  of  this  Lodge, 
are  admonished  by  the  symbolic  meaning  of  the  square, 
to  preserve  that  moral  deportment  among  the  members 
of  your  Lodge  which  should  always  characterize  good 
Masons,  and  to  exert  your  authority  to  prevent  ill-feel- 
ing or  angry  discussion  arising  to  impair  the  harmony 
of  its  meetings. 

You  will  also  receive*  the  various  implements  used  in 
your  Lodge. 

The  Holy  Writings,  thqt  great  light  in  Masonry,  will 
guide  you  to  all  truth  ; it  will  direct  your  paths  to  the 
temple  of  happiness,  and  point  out  to  you  the  whole 
duty  of  man. 

The  Compasses  teach  us  to  limit  our  desires  in  every 
station,  that,  rising  to  eminence  by  merit,  we  may  live 
respected,  and  die  regretted. 

I also  present  you  the  Rule  and  Line.  The  Rule 
directs  that  we  should  punctually  observe  our  duty, 
press  forward  in  the  path  of  virtue,  and,  neither  inclin- 
ing to  the  right  nor  to  the  left,  in  all  our  actions  have 
eternity  in  view. 

The  L ine  teaches  us  the  criterion  of  moral  recti- 
tude, to  avoid  dissimulation  in  conversation  and  action, 
and  to  direct  our  .steps  to  the  path  which  leads  to  im- 
mortality. 


* The  Grand  Marshal  will  hand  the  implements,  as  they  are  referred  to,  to  the  Master,  who 
will  retain  them  respectively  during  the  explanation  by  the  installing  officer,  and  then  return  therq 
to  the  Grand  Marshal. 


38 


CEREMONIALS, 


The  Book  of  Constitutions  you  are  to  search  at 
all  times.  Cause  it  to  be  read  in  your  Lodge,  that 
none  may  pretend  ignorance  of  the  excellent  precepts  it 
enjoins. 

You  now  receive  in  charge  the  Charter,  by  the  au- 
thority of  which  this  Lodge  is  held.  As  its  lawful  cus- 
todian, you  are  carefully  to  preserve,  and  duly  transmit 
it  to  your  successor  in  office. 

You  will  also  receive  in  charge  the  By-Laws  of  your 
Lodge,  which  you  are  to  see  carefully  and  punctually 
executed. 

I place  in  your  hands  this  Gavel,  an  additional  insig- 
nia of  your  rank  and  authority.  Wield  it,  my  brother, 
with  prudence  and  discretion.  I now  seat  you  in  the 
Oriental  Chair,*  and  cover  you  with  that  distinction 
which,  in  this  Lodge,  it  is  alone  your  privilege  to 
wear. 

The  Grand  Master  then  calls  up  the  brethren f and  says: 

Worshipful  Master,  behold  your  brethren. 

Brethren,  behold  your  Worshipful  Master,  and  join 
with  me  in  giving  the  grand  honors. 

After  the  grand  honors  are  given,  the  brethren,  except  the  Grand 
Officers,  will  form  a procession,  single  file,  and,  under  direction  of  the  Grand 
Marshal,  will  pass  around  the  hall,  making  three  circuits.  In  passing  the 
East,  each  brother  will  salute  the  Master,  (who  remains  standing  in  his 
place,)  in  the  manner  peculiar  to  the  several  degrees.:}; 


* The  installing  officer  will  take  the  Master  by  the  hand,  and  place  him  in  the  chair,  and  then 
place  a hat  upon  his  head. 

t The  Master  will  rise  and  hold  his  gavel  on  his  left  breast,  with  his  right  hand. 

X Should  the  installation  ceremonies  be  conducted  in  public,  of  course  the  procession  and  the 
ceremonies  incidental  thereto,  will  be  entirely  omitted,  except  the  ode,  which  at  this  time  may  be 
sung. 


INSTALLATION  OF  OFFICERS. 


39 


The  following,  or  some  other  appropriate  ode,  may  then  be  sung ; 

Behold,  O Master  in  the  East, 

What  glories  greet  thee  there  ; 

What  floods  of  radiance  earthward  stream  ; 
The  sun  is  rising  fair. 

Behold,  O Master,  glorious  arts 
Were  cradled  in  the  East ; 

Behold  what  sciences  came  forth 
Man’s  waking  mind  to  feast. 

O Master,  in  thy  symbolled  East, 

Seek  Wisdom  from  above  ; 

And  spread  the  light  which  heaven  shall  send. 
Within  thy  Lodge  in  love. 

After  the  singing  of  the  Ode,  the  Master  will  seat  the  brethren.  The 
Grand  Marshal  is  directed  by  the  Grand  Master  to  present  each  of  the  other 
officers  in  the  order  of  their  rank  for  installation. 

In  presenting  the  officers,  the  Grand  Marshal  will  announce  the  name  of 
the  brother  and  the  office  to  which  he  has  been  elected,  re-elected,  or  ap- 
pointed. * 

SENIOR  WARDEN. 

Grand  Master.  You  are  elected  (or  appointed,)  Senior 

Warden  of Lodge,  and  you  will  now  be 

invested  with  the  jewel  of  your  office.  (The  Grand  Marshal 
places  the  jewel.)  Tile  level  deiiioustrates  that  we  are  de- 
scended from  the  same  stock,  partake  of  the  .same 
nature,  and  share  the  same  hope  ; and  though  distinc- 
tions among  men  are  necessary  to  preserve  subordina- 
tion, yet  no  eminence  of  .station  should  make  us  forget 


* The  ceremonies  of  installation  are  sometimes  varied  when  the  Grand  Lodge  officers  are  pres- 
ent; by  the  Grand  Master  installing  the  W.  M,,  the  Deputy  Grand  Master  installing  the  S.  W.,  the 
Senior  Grand  Warden  installing  the  J.  W.,  and  the  Junior  Grand  Warden  installing  the  remaining 
officers.  The  G.  M.  delivers  the  charges.  This  variation  in  the  ceremonies  is  a mere  matter  of 
taste. 


40 


CEREMONIALS. 


that  we  are  brethren  ; for  he  who  is  placed  on  the  lowest 
spoke  of  Fortune’s  wheel,  may  be  entitled  to  our  regard  ; 
because  a time  will  come,  and  the  wisest  knows  not 
how  soon,  when  all  distinction  but  that  of  goodness 
shall  cease,  and  Death,  the  grand  leveler  of  human 
greatness,  reduce  us  to  the  same  state. 

Your  regular  and  punctual  attendance  is  essentially 
neces.sary.  In  the  absence  of  the  Master,  you  are  to 
govern  this  Lodge  ; in  his  presence,  you  are  to  assist 
him  in  the  government  of  it.  Your  fitness  for  the  dis- 
charge of  such  important  duties,  undoubtedly  led  to 
your  selection  for  the  office  by  your  brethren,  and  it 
will  be  your  duty  and  pleasure  so  to  act  as  to  justify 

their  confidence.  Brother Look  well  to 

THE  West. 

The  following,  or  some  other  Ode,  may  be  sung: 


O Warden,  with  the  Level  poised. 
What  lesson  dost  thou  give  ? 

Are  all  men  equal  ? Shall  the  worm, 
Or  King  and  peasant  live  ? 

O Warden,  where  King  Hiram  .stood. 
Like  him  seek  .strength  above ; 
Sustain  the  East,  pay  all  their  due ; 
Protect  the  weak  in  love. 


JUNIOR  WARDEN. 

Grand  Master.  Brother  , you  are 

elected  (or  appointed)  Junior  Warden  of Lodge, 


and  will  be  invested  with  the  jewel  of  your  office. 

(The  Grand  Marshal  places  the  jewel.)  Tile  pluiub  adlUOnislleS  US  tO 


INSTALLATION  OK  OFFICERS. 


41 


walk  uprightly  in  our  several  stations  ; to  hold  the 
scales  of  justice  in  equal  poise  ; to  observe  the  just  me- 
dium between  intemperance  and  pleasure ; and  to  make 
our  passions  and  prejudices  coincide  with  the  line  of 
our  duty.  To  you  is  committed  the  superintendence  of 
the  Craft  during  the  hours  of  refreshment  ; it  is,  there- 
fore, indispensably  necessary  that  you  should  not  only 
be  temperate  and  discreet  in  the  indulgence  of  your 
own  inclinations,  but  carefully  observe  that  none  of  the 
Craft  be  suffered  to  convert  the  purposes  of  refreshment 
into  intemperance  and  excess. 

Your  regular  and  punctual  attendance  is  particularly 
requested,  and  we  have  no  doubt  that  you  will  be  ever 
watchful,  whether  at  labor  or  refreshment,  that  the  high 
twelve  of  observation  do  not  find  you  with  your  work, 
and  that  of  the  Craft  you  superintend,  unperformed. 
Brother , look  well  to  the  .South. 

The  Junior  Warden  is  conducted  to  the  South  by  the  Grand  Marshal,  and 
the  following  is  sung: 

0 Warden,  with  thy  Plumb  upraised, 

What  doth  the  emblem  teach  ? 

Do  all  the  Craft  uprightly  walk, 

And  practice  what  they  preach  ? 

O Warden,  where  the  faithful  one 
Observed  the  glorious  .sun, 

Like  him,  adorn  with  Beautv  still 
d'he  work  by  Him  begun. 


TREASURER. 

Brother , you  are  elected  (or  appointed)  Treas- 
urer of Lodge,  and  it  is  with  pleasure  that  I 


Each  officer  is  conducted  to  his  place  in  the  Lodge  by  the  Marshal,  during  which  there  should 
be  a strain  of  instrumental  music. 


6 


42 


CEREMONIALS. 


invest  you  with  the  jewel  of  your-  office.  It  is  your 
clut}^  to  receive  all  moneys  from  the  hand  of  the  Secre- 
tary ; keep  just  and  regular  accounts  of  the  same  ; and 
pay  them  out  by  order  of  the  Worshipful  Master, 
with  the  consent  of  the  Lodge.  I trust  that  your  regard 
for  the  Fraternity  will  prompt  you  to  the  faithful  dis- 
charge of  the  duties  of  your  office. 

SECRETARY. 

Brother , you  are  elected  (or  appointed)  Secretary 

of Lodge,  and  I now  invest  you  with  the  badge  of 

your  office.  It  is  your  duty  to  observe  the  Worshipful 
Master’s  will  and  pleasure  ; to  record  the  proceedings  of 
the  Lodge,  including  the  names  of  the  officers,  the  mem- 
bers and  visitors  who  may  be  present  at  the  communi- 
cations; to  receive  all  moneys  due  the  Lodge,  and 
promptly  pay  them  into  the  hands  of  the  Treasurer. 
Your  good  inclination  to  Masonry  and  your  Lodge, 
will  induce  you  to  discharge  the  duties  of  your  office 
with  fidelity ; and  by  so  doing,  you  will  merit  the  esteem 
and  applause  of  your  brethren. 

CHAPLAIN. 

Rev.  Brother  , you  have  been  elected 

(or  appointed)  Chaplain  of Lodge.  That  hoi)' 

book  which  is  the  chart  and  text-book  of  your  sacred 
calling,  is  also  the  Great  Light  of  Masonry,  and  forever 
sheds  its  benignant  rays  upon  every  lawful  assemblage 
of  Free  and  Accepted  Masons.  From  it  we  may  learn 
our  duty  to  our  God,  our  neighbors  and  ourselves. 
Beach  us  from  its  life-giving  precepts,  and  you  will 
have  faithfully  fulfilled  your  sacred  and  important  trust. 


INSTAIXATION  OF  OFFICERS. 


43 


It  is  fitting  that  an  emblem  of  the  Sacred  Volume 
should  be  the  jewel  of  your  office,  with  which  I now 
invest  you. 

DEACONS. 

Brethren  , and  , you  are 

elected  (or  appointed)  Seulor  and  Junior  Deacons  of 

Lodge,  and  1 now  invest  you  with  the  badge  of  your 
office ; and  I place  in  your  hands  these  rods,  which  you 
will  bear  in  the  performance  of  official  duty,  as  symbols 
of  your  deputed  authority.  It  is  your  province  to 
attend  on  the  Master  and  Wardens,  and  to  act  as  their 
proxies  in  the  active  duties  of  the  Lodge,  such  as  in  the 
reception  of  candidates  into  the  different  degrees  of 
Masonry;  the  introduction  and  accommodation  of  vis- 
itors, and  in  the  immediate  practice  of  our  rites.  The 
Square  and  Compasses,  as  badges  of  your  office,  I 
entrust  to  your  care,  not  doubting  your  vigilance  and 
attention.  You  will  repair  to  your  respective  places  in 
the  Lodge. 

STEWARDS,  f 

Brethren  and  , you  are 

elected  (or  appointed)  Senior  and  Junior  Stewards  of 

Lodge,  and  are  now  invested  with  the  badge  of  your 
office.  You  are  to  assist  the  Deacons  and  other  officers 
in  performing  their  respective  duties,  and  when  the 
Lodge  is  at  refreshment,  it  will  be  your  province  to 
extend  to  visiting  brethren  such  attentions  as  circum- 
stances may  suggest.  Your  regular  and  early  attend- 
ance at  our  meetings  will  afford  the  best  proof  of  zeal 
and  attachment  to  the  Lodge. 


* The  Senior  and  Junior  Deacons  should  be  installed  together, 
t The  Stewards  should  be  installed  together. 


44 


CEREMONIALS. 


MARSHAL. 


Brother , you  are  elected  (or  appointed)  Marshal 

of Lodge.  I invest  you  with  this  baton,  as 


the  appropriate  badge  of  your  office.  It  is  your  duty  to 
form  and  conduct  processions  of  the  brethren  of  the 
Lodge  on  all  public  occasions,  and  to  attend  to  such 
other  interests,  in  the  practice  of  our  rites,  as  the  Wor- 
shipful Master  may  direct. 


ORGANIST. 

Brother , you  are  elected  (or  appointed)  Organ- 
ist of Lodge.  Under  the  direction  of  the 


Worshipful  Master  you  will  conduct  the  musical  serv- 
ices of  the  Lodge.  As  harmony  is  the  strength  and 
support  of  all  institutions,  so  may  the  harmony  over 
which  you  shall  preside,  strengthen  and  support  every 
gentle  and  ennobling  emotion  of  the  soul. 


TYLER. 

Brother , you  are  elected  (or  appointed)  d'yler 

of Lodge,  and  I invest  you  with  the  imple- 


ment of  your  office.  As  the  sword  is  placed  in  the 
hand  of  the  Tyler  to  enable  him  effectually  to  guard 
against  the  approach  of  cowans  and  eaves-droppers, 
and  suffer  none  to  pass  or  repass  but  such  as  are  duly 
({ualified,  so  it  should  admonish  us  to  set  a guard  over 
our  thoughts ; a watch  at  our  lips ; post  a sentinel  over 
our  actions ; thereby  preventing  the  approach  of  every 
unworthy  thought  or  deed ; and  preserving  consciences 
void  of  offense  toward  God  and  toward  man.  I trust 
your  regard  for  good  order  will  prompt  you  in  the  faith- 
ful discharge  of  your  ciuties. 


INSTALLATION  OF  OKFICKRS. 


45 


An  appropriate  Ode  may  now  be  sung,  after  which  the  installing  officer 
will  deliver  the  following : 

CHARGE  TO  THE  WORSHILEUL  MASTER, 

Worshipful  Master  (who rises).  The  Grand  l.ocC'e 
having  committed  to  your  care  the  superintendence  and 
government  of  the  brethren  who  compose  this*  Lodge, 
you  cannot  be  insensible  of  the  obligations  which  de- 
volve on  you  as  their  head ; nor  of  your  responsibility 
for  the  faithful  discharge  of  the  important  duties 
annexed  to  your  appointment  (or election).  The  honor,  rep- 
utation and  usefidness  of  your  Lodge  will  materially 
depend  upon  the  skill  and  assiduity  with  which  you 
manage  its  concerns,  whilst  the  happiness  of  its  mem- 
bers will  be  generally  promoted  in  proportion  to  the 
zeal  and  ability  with  which  you  propogate  the  genuine 
principles  of  our  institution. 

For  a pattern  for  imitation,  consider  the  great  lumi- 
nary of  nature,  which,  rising  in  the  East,  regularly  dif- 
fuses light  and  lustre  to  all  within  the  circle.  In  like 
manner  it  is  your  province  to  spread  and  communicate 
light  and  instruction  to  the  brethren  of  your  Lodge. 
Forcibly  impress  upon  them  the  dignity  and  high  im- 
portance of  Masonry,  and  seriously  admonish  them 
never  to  disgrace  it.  Charge- them  to  practice  out  of 
the  Lodge  those  duties  which  they  have  been  taught  in 
it,  and  by  amiable,  discreet,  and  virtuous  conduct,  to 
convince  mankind  of  the  goodness  of  the  institution  ; 
so  that  when  a person  is  said  to  be  a member  of  it,  the 
world  may  know  that  he  is  one  to  whom  the  burdened 

^ It  the  cerepiontes  in  public,  the  Lodge  should  be  designated  hy  instead  of  th^ 

word  “ this,” 


46 


CEREMONIALS. 


heart  may  pour  out  its  sorrow;  to  whom  distress  may 
prefer  its  suit ; whose  hand  is  guided  by  justice,  and 
whose  heart  is  expanded  by  benevolence.  In  short,  by 
a diligent  observance  of  the  by-laws  of  your  Lodge, 
the  constitutions  of  Masonry,  and  above  all,  the  Holy 
.Scriptures,  which  are  given  as  a rule  and  guide  to  your 
faith,  you  will  be  enabled  to  acquit  yourself  with  honor 
and  reputation. 

Brothers  Senior  and  Junior  Wardens:  (who me). 
You  are  too  well  acquainted  with  the  principles  of  Ma- 
sonry to  warrant  any  distrust  that  you  will  be  found 
wanting  in  the  discharge  of  your  respective  duties. 
.Suffice  it  to  say,  that  what  you  have  seen  praiseworthy 
in  others,  you  should  carefully  imitate  ; and  what  in 
them  may  have  appeared  defective,  you  should  in  your- 
selves amend.  You  should  be  examples  of  good  order 
and  regularity,  for  it  is  only  by  a due  regard  to  the  laws, 
in  your  own  conduct,  that  you  can  expect  obedience  to 
them  from  others.  You  are  assiduously  to  assist  the 
Master  in  the  discharge  of  his  trust,  diffusing  light  and 
imparting  knowledge  to  all  whom  he  shall  place  under 
your  care.  In  the  absence  of  the  Master,  you  will  suc- 
ceed to  higher  duties;  your  acquirements  must  therefore 
be  such  as  that  the  Craft  may  never  suffer  for  want  of 
proper  instruction.s.  From  the  spirit  which  you  have 
hitherto  evinced,  1 entertain  no  doubt  that  your  future 
conduct  will  be  such  as  to  merit  the  applause  of  your 
brethren,  and  the  testimony  of  a good  conscience. 

Brethren  ol  riiis  new  Lodc;e  : (whorise.)  Such  is 
the  nature  of  our  Constitution,  that  as  some  must,  of 
nece.ssity,  rule  and  teach,  so  others  must,  of  course. 


INSTALLATION  OK  OKKICKRS. 


47 


learn  to  submit  and  obey.  Humility  in  both  is  an 
essential  duty.  The  officers  who  are  appointed  to  gov- 
ern your  Lodge  are  sufficiently  conversant  with  the 
rules  of  propriety  and  the  laws  of  the  institution,  to 
avoid  exceeding  the  powers  with  which  they  are  en- 
trusted, and  you  are  of  too  generous  disposition  to  envy 
•their  preferment.  I therefore  trust  that  you  will  have 
but  one  aim — to  please  each  other,  and  unite  in  the 
grand  design  of  being  happy  and  communicating  hap- 
piness. 

Finally,  my  brethren,  as  this  association  has  been 
formed  and  perfected  in  so  much  unanimity  and  con- 
cord, in  which  we  greatly  rejoice,  so  may  it  long  con- 
tinue. May  you  long  enjoy  every  satisfaction  and  de- 
light which  disinterested  friendship  can  afford.  May 
kindness  and  brotherly  affection  di.stinguish  your  con- 
duct as  men  and  Masons.  Within  your  peaceful  walls 
may  your  children’s  children  celebrate,  with  joy  and 
gratitude,  the  annual  recurrence  of  this  amspicious  .sol- 
emnity. And  may  the  tenets  of  our  profession  be  trans- 
mitted through  your  Lodge,  pure  and  unimpaired,  from 
generation  to  generation. 

The  following  charges,  written  by  M.  W.  Paul  Revere,  in  1795,  when 
Grand  Master  of  Masons  in  Massachusetts,  are  appropriate  to  the  officers 
and  brethren  of  an  old  Lodge : 

Worshipful  Master:  (whonses.)  This  Worshipful 
Lodge  having  chosen  you  for  its  Master  and  Repre- 
sentative, it  is  now  incumbent  upon  you  diligently,  and 
upon  every  proper  occasion,  to  inquire  into  the  knowl- 
edge of  your  fellows,  and  find  them  daily  employment, 
that  the  Art  which  they  profess  may  not  be  forgotten 
or  neglected.  You  must  avoid  partiality  — giving 


48 


CEREMONIALS. 


praise  where  it  is  due — and  employing  those  in  the 
most  honorable  part  of  the  work,  who  have  made  the 
greatest  advancement,  for  the  encouragement  of  the 
Art.  You  must  pre.serve  union,  and  judge  in  all  causes 
amicably  and  mildly,  preferring  peace.  That  the  so- 
ciety may  prosper,  you  must  preserve  the  dignity  of 
your  office,  requiring  submission  from  the  perverse  and  . 
refractory ; always  acting  upon,  and  being  guided  by, 
the  principles  upon  which  your  authority  is  founded. 
You  must,  to  the  extent  of  your  power,  pay  a constant 
attendance  on  your  Lodge,  that  you  may  see  how  your 
work  flourishes,  and  how  your  instructions  are  obeyed. 
You  must  take  care  that  neither  your  words  nor  actions 
shall  render  your  authority  to  be  less  regarded,  but  that 
your  prudent  and  careful  behavior  may  set  an  example, 
and  give  a sanction  to  your  power. 

And  as  Brotherly  Love  is  the  cement  of  our  .Society, 
so  cherish  and  encourage  it,  that  the  Brethren  may  be 
more  willing  to  obey  the  dictates  of  Masons,  than  you 
have  occasion  to  command. 

'bo  THE  Officers:  (aiirise.)  And  you,  the  officers  of 
this  Worshipful  Lodge,  must  carefully  assist  the  Ma.ster 
in  the  discharge  and  execution  of  his  office  ; diffusing 
light  and  imparting  knowledge  to  all  the  fellows  under 
your  care  ; keeping  the  brethren  in  just  order  and  de- 
corum, that  nothing  may  disturb  the  peaceful  serenity, 
or  obstruct  the  glorious  effects  of  harmony  and  concord. 
And  that  this  may  be  the  better  preserved,  you  must 
carefully  inquire  into  the  character  of  all  candidates  to 
this  honorable  .Society  ; and  recommend  none  to  the 
Master,  who,  in  your  opinion,  are  unworthy  of  the 


INSTALLATION  OF  OFFICERS. 


49 


privileges  and  advantages  of  Masonry — keeping  the 
Cynic  far  from  the  Ancient  Fraternity,  where  harmony 
is  obstructed  by  the  superstitious  and  morose.  You 
must  discharge  the  Lodge  quietly,  encouraging  the 
Brethren  assembled  to  work  cheerfully,  that  none,  when 
dismissed,  may  go  away  dissatisfied. 

TO  THE  BRETHREN,  (all  standing.) 

And  you.  Brethren  of  this  Worshipful  Lodge,  learn 
to  follow  the  advice  and  instructions  of  your  officers  ; 
submitting  cheerfully  to  their  amicable  decisions ; 
throwing  by  all  resentments  and  prejudices  towards 
each  other.  Let  your  chief  care  be  to  the  advancement 
of  the  Society  you  have  the  honor  to  be  members  of. 
Let  there  be  a modest  and  friendly  emulation  among 
you  in  doing  good  to  each  other.  Let  complacency 
and  benevolence  flourish  among  you.  Let  your  actions 
be  squared  by  the  rules  of  Masonry.  Let  friendship 
be  cheri.shed,  and  all  advantages  of  that  title  by  which 
we  distinguish  each  other ; that  we  may  be  Brothers, 
not  only  in  name,  but  in  the  full  import,  extent  and  lat- 
itude of  .so  glorious  an  appellation. 

Finally,  my  brethren,  as  this  association  has  been 
carried  on  with  so  much  unanimity  and  concord,  (in 
which  we  greatly  rejoice,)  so  may  it  continue  to  the 
latest  ages.  May  your  love  be  reciprocal  and  harmon- 
ious. While  these  principles  are  uniformly  supported, 
this  Lodge  will  be  an  honor  to  Masonry,  an  example 
to  the  world,  and  therefore,  a blessing  to  mankind. 

B'rom  this  happy  prospect,  I rest  assured  of  your 
steady  perseverance  ; and  conclude  with  wishing  you 


50 


CEREMONIALS. 


all,  my  Brethren,  joy  of  your  Master,  Wardens,  and 
other  officers,  and  of  your  Constitutional  union  as 
Brethren. 

The  Grand  Marshal,  by  command  of  the  Grand  Master,  will  make  the 
following — 

PROCLAMATION. 

1 am  directed  by  the  Most  Worshipful  Grand  Master 
to  proclaim,  and  do  hereby  proclaim,  that  the  Wor- 
shipful Master,  Wardens,  and  other  officers  elected  and 
appointed  to  govern Lodge,  have  been  regu- 

larly installed  into  their  respective  stations  for  the  ensu- 
ing Masonic  year. 

The  Grand  Marshal  continues,  saying: 

This  proclamation  is  made  from  the  East  * from  the 
West,\  and  from  the  South.%.  Once;§  twice;]]  thrice.^ 
All  interested  will  take  due  notice,  and  govern  them- 
selves accordingly. 

The  Worshipful  Master  will  seat  the  brethren,  when  an  appropriate — 
ORATIONff 

may  be  delivered.  Upon  its  conclusion,  a 

CLOSING  ODRff 

may  be  sung.  After  which  the  W.  M.  will  call  up  the  brethren,  and  the 
(rrand  Chaplain  will  pronounce  the  following,  or  some  other  appropriate — 

BENEDICTION. 

Almighty  and  Everlasting  God ! Erom  whom 
cometh  every  good  and  perfect  gift,  send  down  upon 

* The  Worshipful  Master  strikes  one  blow  with  his  gavel. 

I The  Senior  Warden  strikes  one  blow  with  his  gavel. 

i The  Junior  Warden  strikes  one  blow  with  his  gavel. 

The  Junior  Warden  strikes  once  with  his  gavel. 

]|  The  Senior  Warden  strikes  tivice  with  his  gavel. 

^1  The  Worshipful  Master  strikes  thrice  with  his  gavel. 

It  The  oration  and  closing  ode  may  be  omitted  if  desired. 


INSTALLATION  OF  OFFICERS. 


51 


Thy  servants  here  assembled,  the  healthful  spirit  of 
Thy  grace,  that  they  may  truly  please  Thee  in  all  their 
doings.  Grant,  O Lord,  power  of  mind  and  great  un- 
derstanding unto  those  whom  we  have  this  day  clothed 
with  authority  to  preside  over  and  direct  the  affairs 
of  this  Lodge  ; and  so  replenish  them  with  the  truth 
of  this  doctrine,  and  adorn  them  with  humility  of  life, 
that,  both  by  word  and  good  example,  they  may  faith- 
fully serve  Thee,  to  the  glory  of  Thy  holy  name,  and 
to  the  acivancement,  for  all  good  purposes,  of  our  be- 
loved institution.  Amen. 

Response.  So  mote  it  be. 

The  Grand  Master  will  then  instruct  the  Grand  Marshal  to  re-fonn  the 
Grand  Lodge*  in  procession,  which  is  done  in  the  same  order  as  upon  enter- 
ing the  hall.f  The  Worshipful  Master  instructs  the  brethren  to  join  in  the 
GRAND  honors;  after  which,  the  Occasional  Grand  Officers  will  move  from 
the  hall,  aecompanied  by  instrumental  music,  and  return  to  its  apartment, 
where  the  Grand  Lodge  will  be  closed. 


* This  supposes  that  the  installation  has  followed  the  constitution  of  a new  lodge,  which  re- 
quires a Grand  Lodge ; but  in  an  old  lodge,  this  ceremony  will,  of  course,  not  occur. 

f The  symbol  of  the  lodge  should  be  left  in  the  lodge  hall. 


DEDICATION  OF  MASONIC  HALLS 


Every  hall  or  room  used  for  Masonic  purposes,  should  be  properly  dedi- 
cated. 

The  ceremony  cannot  be  lawfully  conducted  except  by  the  Grand 
Master  in  person,  or  by  some  brother  acting  for  him,  under  special  written 
authority. 

At  the  time  appointed  for  the  ceremony,*  a sufficient  number  of  brethren 
to  act  as  Grand  Officersf  will  assemble  in  a convenient  apartment,  near  the 
Lodge  room  that  is  to  be  dedicated,  and  an  Occasional  Grand  Lodge  will  be 
opened  on  the  third  degree.  The  brethren  of  the  Lodge  and  their  visiting 
brethren  should  be  clothed.  The  officers  wearing  their  respective  jewels, 
and,  with  their  guests,  occupying  the  Lodge  room,  with  the  Worshipful 
Master  seated  in  the  East.  There  should  be  a small  stand  located  between 
the  Altar  and  the  East,  upon  which  to  place  the  symbol  of  the  Lodge.  When 
all  is  in  readiness,  the  W.  M.  will  say: 

Brother  Senior  Deacon  : You  will  proceed  to 
the  apartment  of  the  Grand  Lodge,  and  inform  the 

Grand  Master  that  the  brethren  of Lodge, 

No , are  prepared  to  receive  the  officers  of  the  M. 

W.  Grand  Lodge,  and  await  the  pleasure  of  the  M.  W. 
Grand  Master. 

The  message  being  duly  delivered. 


* The  ceremonies  here  laid  down  may  be  conducted  in  public  or  private, 
t For  selection  of  officers,  see  ceremony  of  constitution,  page  19. 


54 


CEREMONIALS. 


Grand  Master.  Inform  the  Worshipful  Master  and 
brethren  that  the  Grand  Lodge  will  be  in  attendance  in 
due  time. 


The  Grand  Marshal  will  then  form  the  Grand  Lodge  in  the  following 
order : 


Grand  Tyler; 

(drawn  sword.) 

Grand  Steward,  The  Symbol  of  the  Lodge,*  Grand  Steward, 

(carried  by  four  brethren  with  white  aprons.) 


Grand  Steward,  Grand  Pursuivant,  Grand  Steward, 

(carrying  Bible,  Square  and  (.iompass,  upon  a cushion.) 

Grand  Orator,  Grand  Chaplain, 

Grand  Secretary,  Grand  Treasurer, 


Junior  Grand  Warden, 

(carrying  vessel  of  corn.) 


Senior  Grand  Warden. 

(carrying  vessel  of  wine.) 


Deputy  Grand  Master, 

(carrying  vessel  of  oil.) 

Book  of  Constitutions, 

(carried  by  Master  of  oldest  Lodge.) 


Junior  Grand  Deacon,  GRAND  MASTER,  Senior  Grand  Deacon, 

(carrying  rod.)  (carrying  rod.) 

Grand  Standard  Bearer. 

Grand  Sword  Bearer, 

(carrying  drawn  sword.) 


The  procession  will  move  to  the  hall  to  be  dedicated.  When  the  head  of 
the  ])rocession  enters  the  door,  the  W.  M.,  with  his  gavel,  will  call  up  all  the 
brethren  present.  The  procession  moves  towards  the  East,  passing  West  and 
North  of  the  Altar,  during  which  there  should  be  instrumental  music,  f 
When  the  Grand  Tyler  reaches  the  foot  of  the  dais  in  the  East,  the  symbol 
of  the  Lodge  will  be  placed  upon  the  stand,  the  great'  lights  laid  upon  the 
Altar,  and  the  book  of  Constitutions  placed  upon  the  pedestal  in  the  East. 
The  Grand  Officers  will  then  open  to  the  right  and  left,  facing  inward.  The 


* For  description,  see  foot  note  *,  page  20. 

t Should  Knights  Templar,  as  such,  be  present,  they  should  act  as  guard  of  honor  to  the 
Grand  Lodge,  forming  a line  on  North  and  South  sides  of  the  hall,  which  position  they  will  main- 
tain during  the  ceremonies. 


nKDiCATlON  OF  MASONIC  HAJ/LS. 


55 


W.  M.  will  call  on  all  the  brethren  present  to  join  in  receiving  the  Grand 
Officers  with  the  grand  honors.^  The  Grand  Marshal  and  Grand  Tyler  will 
then  pass  through  the  lines,  and  escort  the  Grand  Master  (uncovered)  to  his 
station,  the  Master  taking  a seat  on  the  left;  after  which  the  Grand  Marshal 
will  escort  the  Deputy  Grand  Master,  Grand  Chaplain  and  Grand  Orator  to 
their  respective  stations  in  the  East ; the  brethren  are  then  seated  by  the 
Grand  Master ; after  which  the  Grand  Marshal  will  request  the  other  Grand 
Officers  to  repair  to  their  respective  stations  in  the  hall.:}; 

AN  OPENING  ODE, 


Appropriate  to  the  occasion,  will  now  be  sung;  at  the  conclusion  of  which, 
the  W.  M.  of  the  Lodge  rises,  and  addresses  the  Grand  Master  as  follows: 

Most  Worshipful  Grand  Master  : The  brethren 

of Lodge  being  animated  with  a desire 

to  promote  the  honor  and  interest  of  the  Craft,  have 
erected  and  furnished  this  hall,  for  their  convenience 
and  accommodation.  They  are  desirous  that  the  same 
should  be  examined  by  the  M.  W.  Grand  Master;  and, 
if  it  should  meet  his  approbation,  that  it  should  be  sol- 
emnly dedicated  to  Masonic  purposes,  agreeably  to 
ancient  form  and  usage. 


The  Grand  Master  will  address  the  assembly,  announcing  the  purpose 
of  the  occasion,  with  such  remarks  as  he  may  deem  proper,  concluding  by 
saying: 

In  accordance  with  the  teachings  of  our  ancient  in- 
stitution, it  is  our  duty,  before  entering  upon  any  im- 
portant undertaking,  to  invoke  the  blessing  of  God. 
We  will  therefore  unite  with  our  Grand  Chaplain  in  an 
address  to  the  Throne  of  Grace. 


The  Grand  Master  calls  up  the  brethren,  and  uncovers.  The  Grand 
Chaplain  will  offer  the  following,  or  some  other  appropriate — 


* Give  full  GRAND  HONORS,  See  foot  note  *,  page  21. 

I During  the  seating  of  the  Grand  Officers  there  should  be  instrumental  music. 


56 


CEREMONIALS. 


PRAYER. 

O Thou  Great  and  Eternal  Lord  God ! source  of 
light  and  love!  The  Supreme  Grand  Master  and 
Mighty  Architect  of  the  wonders  of  creation,  who  from 
Thy  Throne  in  the  Highest  Heaven,  in  mercy  lookest 
down  upon  all  the  d^^mllers  of  earth,  lend,  we  beseech 
Thee,  Thine  ears  to  the  prayers  and  petitions  of  Thy 
children  now  assembled  in  Thy  presence,  to  teach  the 
mysteries  of  that  sublime  edifice  which  is  erected  and 
dedicated  to  Thy  most  holy  and  glorious  name.  Pour 
upon  us,  and  all  the  members  of  the  Mystic  Craft 
throughout  the  world,  the  rich  blessings  of  Thy  Provi- 
dence. Give  us  strength  to  overcome  temptations,  to 
subdue  our  passions,  and  to  practice  virtue.  Fill  our 
hearts  with  fear  without  desolation  ; with  confidence 
without  presumption  ; with  piety  without  illusion  ; and 
with  tender  affection  for  Thy  divine  goodness,  and  love 
for  our  neighbors  ; make  us  faithful  to  our  friends,  and 
charitable  to  our  enemies.  Dispose  our  hearts,  O Thou 
God  Eternal,  to  receive  the  splendid  impressions  of 
religion  and  humanity ! and  direct  our  footsteps  in  the 
bright  paths  of  virtue.  Let  all  our  actions  prove  to 
mankind  that  our  lives  are  sincerely  dedicated  to  Thee, 
our  God,  and  to  the  relief  of  our  fellow-creatures. 
And,  finally,  when  we  yield  up  our  breath  to  Thee,  the 
source  of  life,  may  we,  bearing  the  rich  harvest  of  good 
actions,  be  admitted  into  that  sublime  and  eternal 
Lodge,  where  happiness  reigns  without  alloy ; and, 
around  the  Throne  of  the  Great  Jehovah,  we  shall  sing 
hallelujahs  to  His  name. 

Now  to  the  King  eternal,  immortal,  invisible — the 
only  wise  God,  be  the  kingdom,  power  and  glory,  for- 
ever and  ever.  Amen. 


DEDICATION  OK  MASIONIC  HALLS. 


57 


Grand  Master  seats  the  brethren,  when  the  architect  who  superintended 
the  erection  of  the  structure  (or  the  brother  who  managed  the  fitting,  etc. , 
of  the  hall)  will  advance  to  the  front  of  the  East,  and  address  the  Grand 
Master  as  follows : 

Most  Worshipful  Grand  Master  : Having  been 
intrusted  with  the  duty  of  supervising  and  directing 
the  workmen  employed  in  the  construction  of  this 
edifice,  and  having,  to  the  best  of  my  ability,  accom- 
plished the  task  assigned  me,  I now  return  my  thanks 
for  the  honor  of  the  appointment,  and  beg  leave  to 
return  to  you  the  implements  committed  to  my  care 
when  the  corner-stone  of  this  structure  was  laid, 

{presenting  to  the  Grand  Master  the  square,  level  and  plumb,)  humbly  hopiUg 

that  the  result  of  our  labors  will  be  crowned  with  your 
approbation,  and  that  of  the  Most  Worshipful  Grand 
Lodge. 

o 

To  which  the  Grand  Master  replies : 

Brother  Architect  : The  skill  and  fidelity  dis- 
played in  the  execution  of  the  trust  reposed  in  you  at 
the  commencement  of  this  undertaking,  have  received 
the  entire  approbation  of  the  Grand  Lodge  ; and  they 
sincerely  pray  that  this  edifice  may  continue  a lasting 
monument  of  the  taste,  spirit,  and  liberality  of  its 
founders. 

The  Deputy  Grand  Master  rises  and  says : 

Most  Worshipfui.  Grand  Master:  d'he  hall  in 
which  we  are  now  assembled,  and  the  plan  u|)on  which 
it  has  been  constructed,  having  met  with  your  appro- 
bation, it  is  the  desire  of  the  brethren  that  it  should 
now  be  dedicated  according  to  ancient  form  and  usage. 

(Resumes  his  seat.) 


8 


58 


CEREMONIALS. 


Grand  Master  replies : 

RroHT  Worshipful  Deputy  : Agreeably  to  the 
request  of  the  brethren,  we  will  now  proceed  with  the 
ceremonies.  Brother  Grand  Marshal,  you  will  form  the 
Grand  Ofificers  in  procession. 

The  Grand  Marshal  will  instruct  the  Grand  Officers  to  form  in  single  file 
on  the  north  side  of  the  hall,  facing  East,  in  the  following  order: 

Grand  Tyler. 

Grand  Standard  Bearer. 

Grand  Sword  Bearer. 

Grand  Pursuivant. 

Grand  Steward. 

Grand  Steward. 

Grand  Secretary. 

Grand  Treasurer. 

Grand  Chaplain. 

Junior  Grand  Warden, 

(carrying  vessel  of  corn.) 

, Senior  Grand  Warden, 

(carrying  vessel  of  wine.) 

Deputy  Grand  Master, 

(carrying  vessel  of  oil.) 

Junior  Grand  Deacon,  GRAND  MASTER,  Senior  Grand  Deacon. 

(who  will  take  his  place  as  tlie  procession  passes  the  East.) 

The  procession  will  move  around  the  symbol  of  the  Lodge,  passing  East 
of  the  Altar;  the  symbol  will  be  .slowly  uncovered  by  the  Grand  Marshal, 
during  which  the  first  stanza  of  the  Gde  will  be  sung  by  the  Choir,  as  fol- 
lows : 

Air — Old  Hundred. 

Genius  of  Masonry,  descend. 

And  with  thee  bring  thy  spotless  name ; 
Constant  our  Sacred  Rites  attend, 

While  we  adore  thy  peaceful  reign. 


DEDICATION  OF  MASONIC  HAI.LS. 


59 


When  the  Grand  Master  arrives  at  the  East,  the  music  ceases ; the  pro- 
cession halts,  facing  inward;  the  Worshipful  Master  calls  up  the  brethren ; 
and,  by  direction  of  the  Grand  Master,  the  Grand  Officers  will  kneel,  while 
the  Grand  Chaplain  will  offer  the  following 

CONSECRATION  PRAYER. 

Almighty  Father!  inasmuch  as  Thou  hast  promised 
when  two  or  three  are  gathered  together  in  Thy  name, 
to  be  present  with  them,  we  humbly  beseech  Thee  that 
Fhou  wouldst  now  be  present,  and  direct  our  hearts  in 
Thy  ways.  Accept,  O Lord,  the  dedication  of  this  hall, 
and  make  it,  and  the  work  for  which  it  is  to  be  set 
apart,  instrumental  in  promoting  the  reign  of  peace  on 
earth,  and  good  will  among  men.  Flere  may  Thy 
name  be  honored.  Thy  laws  obeyed,  and  Thy  glory 
exalted  and  magnified.  So  order,  O loving  Father! 
that  within  these  consecrated  walls  none  but  the  good 
and  true  may  enter ; that  here  men  may  learn  to  forget 
the  passions,  the  strife,  the  heart-burnings  and  jealous- 
ies of  the  world  ; and,  obedient  to  the  precepts  of  our 
time-honoreci  brotherhood,  may  learn  to  love  each 
other,  and  draw  nearer  to  Thee.  Enlarge  and  broaden 
the  .sympathies  of  the  brethren  for  the  poor  and  op- 
pressed ; for  the  widow,  and  the  dear  little  ones  who 
may  need  their  care  and  protection  ; and  make  us  all 
feel  that  such  service  is  acceptable  in  Thy  sight.  And 
finally,  O Father!  incline  all  our  hearts  to  Thy  service, 
and  all  our  acts  to  Thy  glory ; and  when,  at  last,  our 
labors  here  are  ended,  when  the  veils  of  this  earthly 
tabernacle  are  rent,  take  us  to  Thy  presence,  there  to 
join  with  all  the  heavenly  ho.sts,  in  ascribing  never  end- 
ing praise  to  Thy  name.  Amen. 

Kcsponsc.  So  mote  it  be.  (The  brethren  are  seated.) 


6o 


CEREMONIALS. 


The  Grand  Officers  will  rise  and  move  around  the  symbol  of  the  Lodge 
as  before,  during  which  the  second  stanza  of  the  Ode  will  be  sung,  as  follows: 


Hrin^'  with  thee  Virtue,  brightest  maid  ; 

Bring  Fawc,  bring  Truth,  bring  Friendship  here, 
While  social  Mirth  shall  lend  her  aid 
d o smooth  the  wrinkled  brow  of  Care. 

AVhen  the  Grand  Master  reaches  the  East,  the  procession  halts,  facing 
inward,  when  the  Junior  Grand  Warden  advances,  and  presents  the  vessel 
of  Corn,  saying: 


Most  Worshipful  Grand  Master:  In  the  ded- 
ication of  Masonic  Halls,  it  has  been  of  immemorial 
custom  to  pour  Corn  upon  the  Lodge,  as  an  emblem 
of  nourishment.  I therefore  present  to  you  this  vessel 
of  Corn,  to  be  employed  by  you  according  to  ancient 
usage. 

The  Grand  Master  then,  calls  up  the  brethren  by  striking  the  emblem  of 
the  Lodge  thrice  with  his  gavel,  uncovers,  and  pours  the  Corn  upon  the 
emblem,  saying: 

In  the  name  of  the  great  Jehovah,  to  whom  be  all 
honor  and  glory,  I do  solemnly  dedicate  this  Hall  to 
Freemasonry. 

The  GRAND  HONORS  are  then  given  once."^  The  Grand  Master  seats  the 
brethren,  when  the  procession  again  moves  around  the  emblem;  during 
which  the  third  stanza  of  the  Ode  is  sung,  as  follows : 

Bring  Charity  with  goodness  crowned  ; 

Encircled  in  thy  heavenly  robe ; 

Diffuse  thy  blessings  all  around, 

To  every  corner  of  the  globe. 

When  the  Grand  Master  reaches  the  East,  the  Senior  Grand  Warden 
advances,  presents  the  vessel  of  Wine,  and  says: 


See  note  on  page  21,  for  explanation  of  grand  honors. 


DEDICA'I'ION  OF  :\rA.SONTC  HALLS. 


6l 


Most  Worshipful  Granj>  Master:  Wine,  the 
emblem  of  refreshment,  having  been  used  by  our 
ancient  brethren  in  the  ceremonies  of  dedication  and 
consecration,  I present  to  you  this  vessel  of  Wine,  to 
be  used  on  the  present  occasion  according  to  ancient 
Masonic  form. 

The  Grand  Master  strikes  the  emblem  three  times  (at  which  the  brethren 
rise),  and  sprinkles  the  Wine  upon  the  emblem,  sa3dng: 

In  the  name  of  the  Holy  Saints  John,  I do  solemnly 
dedicate  this  hall  to  Virtue. 

The  GRAND  HONORS  are  then  given  twice.  The  brethren  are  seated,  and 
the  procession  moves  around  the  emblem,  during  which  the  choir  will  sing 
the  following  stanza: 


To  Heaven’s  high  Architect  all  praise. 

All  praise,  all  gratitude  be  given. 

Who  deigned  the  human  soul  to  raise 
By  mystic  secrets,  sprung  from  Heaven. 

When  the  Grand  Master  arrives  at  the  East,  the  Deputy  Grand  Master 
advances  and  presents  the  vessel  of  Oil,  saying: 

Most  Worshipful  Grand  Master:  1 present 

to  you,  to  be  used  according  to  ancient  custom,  this 
vessel  of  oil,  an  emblem  of  that  joy  which  should  ani- 
mate every  bosom  on  the  completion  of  any  important 
undertaking. 


The  Grand  Master,  striking  the  emblem  three  times  (brethren  rise), 
sprinkles  the  Oil  upon  the  emblem,  saying: 


In  the  name  of  the  whole  Fraternity,  I do  solemnl)' 
dedicate  this  Hall  to  Universal  Benevolence, 


62 


CEREMONIALS. 


The  GRAND  fiONOKs  ai'c  given  thrice;  when  the  Grand  Chaplain  advances 
and  makes  the  following 

INVOCATION. 

And  may  the  Lord,  the  giver  of  every  good  and 
perfect  gift,  bless  the  brethren  here  assembled,  in  all 
their  lawful  undertakings,  and  grant  to  each  one  of 
them,  in  needful  supply,  the  Corn  of  nourishment,  the 
Wine  of  refreshment,  and  the  Oil  of  joy.  Amen. 

Response.  So  mote  it  be. 

The  Grand  Marshal  will  then  slowly  re-cover  the  emblem  of  the  Lodge, 
accompanied  by  a strain  of  music;  after  which  the  Grand  Master  will  re- 
sume his  chair,  and  the  other  Grand  Officers  will  take  their  respective  sta- 
tions. The  Grand  Marshal  then  makes  the  following 

PROCLAMATION. 

By  order  of  the  Most  Worshipful  Grand  Master,  I 
do  hereby  proclaim,  that  the  Hall  in  which  we  are 
now  assembled,  has  been  dedicated  to  the  purposes 
of  Freemasonry  in  due  and  ancient  form.  All  persons 
interested  will  take  due  notice,  and  govern  themselves 
accordingly. 


An  appropriate  Oration  may  now  be  delivered;  at  the  conclusion  ol 
which,  the  Grand  Master  will  call  up  the  brethren,  and  request  the  Grand 
Chaplain  to  pronounce  a suitable 

BENEDICTION. 

The  Grand  Officers  then  form  in  procession,  under  the  direction  of  the 
Grand  Marshal,  in  the  same  order  as  at  entering  the  Hall,  and  return  to  their 
apartment,*  where  the  (Occasional  Grand  Lodge  will  be  closed. 


*While  passing  out  of  the  Hall,  there  should  be  instrumental  music.  When  the  Grand  Officers 
have  retired,  the  W.  M.  will  seat  the  brethren,  if  he  desires  them  to  remain,  or  he  may  dismiss  the 
assembly. 


LAYING  COKNEK-STONES. 


These  ceremonies  are  conducted  only  by  the  Grand  Master  in  person,  or 
by  some  brother  acting  for  him,  under  special  written  authority,  assisted  by 
the  officers  of  an  Occasional  Grand  Lodge,  and  such  of  the  Craft  as  may 
be  invited,  or  who  may  choose  to  attend,  either  as  lodges,  or  as  individual 
brethren. 

No  corner-stone  should  be  laid  with  Masonic  ceremonies,  except  those 
of  acknowledged  public  structures,  or  buildings  which  are  to  be  used  for 
Masonic  purposes ; and  then  only  by  special  request  of  the  proper  author- 
ities. 

The  lodge  or  lodges  in  the  place  where  the  building  is  to  be  erected,  may 
invite  such  neighboring  lodges,  and  other  Masonic  bodies,  as  they  may  deem 
proper.  The  Chief  Magistrate,  and  other  officers  of  the  place,  should  also 
be  invited  to  attend  on  the  occasion. 

At  the  time  appointed  for  the  ceremony,  a sufficient  number  of  brethren* 
to  act  as  Grand  Officers  are  convened  in  a suitable  place,  where  an  Occa- 
sional Grand  Lodge  will  be  opened  on  the  Third  Degree,  and  proper 
instructions  given  by  the  Grand  Master;  after  which,  the  officers  of  the 
(xrand  Lodge,  under  the  direction  of  the  Grand  Marshal,  will  form  in  the 
following  order  :f 


For  selection  of  officers,  see  foot  note  * page  19. 

t In  all  public  processions,  the  brethren  should  appear  dressed  in  dark  clothes,  black  hats,  and 
white  gloves.  Officers  may  wear  their  jewels.  No  umbrellas  should  be  carried  by  the  brethren  in 
a public  procession. 


GRAND  MARSHAL. 


64 


CEREMONIALS, 


Grand  Tyler, 

(with  drawn  sword.) 


Grand  Steward, 

(carrying  rod.) 


Grand  Pursuivant, 

(carrying  Bible,  Square  and  Compasses, 
on  a cushion.) 


Grand  Steward, 

(carrying  rod.) 


Grand  Orator, 


Grand  Chaplain, 


Grand  Secretary, 


Grand  Treasurer, 


(carrying  scroll,  containing  list  of 
articles  to  be  placed  under  the 
corner-stone.) 


(In  charge  of  the  bo.'t'*'  to  be  de- 
posited under  the  corner- 
stone.) 


Grand  Steward, 

(carrying  rod.) 

Past  Grand  Officers,! 

(in  the  order  of  their  rank,  two  abreast.) 

Grand  Speward 

(carrying  rod.) 

Pr  I NCI  PA  1 . A RC  H ri'ECT,  J 
(carrying  Square,  Level  and  Plumb.) 

Junior  Grand  Warden,  Senior  Grand  Warden, 

(carrying  vessel  of  oil.)  (carrying  vessel  of  wine.) 

Deputy  Grand  Master, 

(carrying  vessel  of  corn.) 

Master  of  Oldest  Lodge, 

(carrying  book  of  constitutions.)  ^ 

Junior  Grand  Deacon,  GRAND  MASTER.  Senior  Grand  Deacon, 

(carrying  rod.)  (carrying  rod.) 


Grand  Standard  Bearer. 

Grand  Sword  Bearer, 

The  procession  thus  formed  will  proceed  to  join  the  general  procession, 
if  any,  and  march  to  the  place  where  the  ceremony  is  to  be  performed. 


* This  box  may  be  carried  by  the  Treasurer,  or  be  sent  in  advance  to  the  site  of  the  corner- 
stone, as  circumstances  may  dictate. 

t In  the  absence  of  Past  Grand  Officers,  these  Stewards  will  support  the  Deputy  Grand  Master 
and  Grand  Wardens. 

I If  the  Architect  of  the  building  is  not  a member  of  the  Masonic  fraternity,  the  square,  level 
and  plumb  will  be  carried  by  a brother  appointed  for  the  purpose,  who  will  deliver  them  to  the 
Architect  on  arriving  at  the  corner-stone. 


J.AYING  CORNER-STONES. 


65 


Whenever  Knights  Templar  are  present  in  uniform,  they  should  act  as 
an  escort,  or  guard  of  honor  to  the  Grand  Lodge.* 

When  a procession  is  composed  of  others  than  the  officers  of  the  Grand 
Lodge,  and  includes  any  or  all  of  the  bodies  named  below,  it  should  be 
formed  in  the  following  order,  viz. : 


I. 

Music. 

II. 

Military. 

III. 

Citizens. 

IV. 

Societies  and  Organizations. 

<1 

X 

V. 

Music. 

C/} 

VI. 

Knights  Templar  (escort). 

< 

VII. 

Royal  Arch  Masons. 

Q 

VIII. 

Master  Masons. 

< 

IX. 

Music. 

0 

X. 

Knights  Templar  (escort  to  G.  L.) 

XL 

Chief  Magistrate  and  civil  officers  of  the  place. 

XII. 

Grand  Lodge,  in  the  order  before  named. 

No  banners  or  inscriptions  of  a political  or  sectarian  character  should 
be  allowed  in  the  procession. 

Should  any  Masonic  body  other  than  those  above  named  appear,  they 
should  be  assigned  an  appropriate  place  in  the  procession. 

A triumphal  arch  is  usually  erected  near  the  place  where  the  ceremony 
is  to  be  performed ; and  the  corner-stone  should  have  engraved  on  its  face, 
the  words  “Laid  by  the  Masonic  Fraternity,"  with  the  date,  the  year  of 
Masonry,  the  name  of  the  Grand  Master,  and  such  other  particulars  as  may 
be  deemed  proper. 

When  the  head  of  the  procession  reaches  the  Arch,  it  will  open  to  the 
right  and  left,  facing  inward.  The  Grand  Master,  uncovering,  preceded  by 
the  Grand  Marshal  and  Grand  Tyler,  and  followed  by  the  other  (irand 
Officers  and  the  Chief  Magistrate  and  civil  officers  of  the  place,  will  pass 
through  the  lines  and  ascend  to  the  platform.  As  the  Grand  Master  and 
others  advance,  the  remainder  of  the  procession  will  counter-march  and  sur- 
round the  platform. 

The  stone  should  be  suspended  about  six  feet  from  its  bed,  by  a machine 
having  suitable  arrangements  for  slowly  lowering  it  to  its  place.  All  being 
in  readiness — 


* When  there  are  two  or  more  Commanderies  of  Knights  Templar  present,  the  local  Com- 
mandery,  if  any,  will  act  as  escort  to  the  Grand  Lodge  ; otherwise,  the  oldest  Commandery  present 
will  have  preference.  Other  Commanderies  will  act  in  same  capacity  to  other  bodies  of  the  Masonic 
fraternity  which  may  be  in  the  procession. 


9 


66 


CEREMONIALS. 


The  Grand  Master  will  command  silence ; when  some  official,  connected 
with  the  building,  should  publicly  invite  the  Grand  Master  to  lay  the  corner- 
stone. The  Grand  Master  will  then  address  the  assembly,  announcing  the 
purposes  of  the  occasion,  etc.,  concluding  as  follows: 

The  teachings  of  Freemasonry  inculcate,  that  in  all 
our  works,  great  or  small,  begun  and  finished,  we 
should  seek  the  aid  of  Almighty  God.  It  is  our  first 
duty,  then,  to  invoke  the  blessing  of  the  great  Archi- 
tect of  the  Universe  upon  the  work  in  which  we  are 
about  to  engage.  I therefore  command  the  utmost 
silence,  and  call  upon  all.  to  unite  with  our  Grand 
Chaplain  in  an  address  to  the  Throne  of  Grace. 

The  brethren  uncover,  while  the  Grand  Chaplain  delivers  the  following, 
or  some  other  appropriate 

PRAYER. 

Almighty  God  ! who  hath  given  us  grace  at  this 
time,  with  one  accord,  to  make  our  common  supplication 
unto  Thee,  and  dost  promise,  that  where  two  or  three 
are  gathered  together  in  Thy  name.  Thou  wilt  grant 
their  request;  fulfill  now,  O Lord!  the  desires  and  peti- 
tions of  thy  servants,  as  may  be’  most  expedient  for 
them;  granting  us  in  this  world,  knowledge  of  Thy 
truth;  and  in  the  world  to  come,  life  everlasting. 
Amen. 

Response.  So  mote  it  be. 

The  Choir  will  then  sing  an  Ode. 

Grand  Master.  R.  W.  Bro.  Grand  Treasurer,  it 
has  ever  been  the  custom,  on  occasions  like  the  present, 
to  deposit  within  a cavity  in  the  stone,  placed  in  the 
north-east  corner  of  the  edifice,  certain  memorials  of 


LAYING  CORNER-STONES. 


67 


the  period  at  which  it  was  erected ; so  that  in  the 
lapse  of  ages,  if  the  fury  of  the  elements,  or  the  slow 
but  certain  ravages  of  time,  should  lay  bare  its  founda- 
tion, an  enduring  record  may  be  found  by  succeeding 
generations,  to  bear  testimony  to  the  energy,  industry 
and  culture  of  our  time.  Has  such  a deposit  been 
prepared? 


Grand  Treasurer.  It  has.  Most  Worshipful  Grand 
Master,  and  the  various  articles  of  which  it  is  com- 
posed, are  safely  enclosed  within  the  casket  now  before 
you. 

Grand  Master.  R.  W.  Grand  Secretary,  you  will 
read  for  the  information  of  the  brethren  and  others 
here  assembled,  a record  of  the  contents  of  the  casket. 


Grand  Secretary  reads  a list  of  the  articles  contained  in  the  casket. 


(jrand  Master.  R.  W.  Grand  Treasurer,  you  will 
now  deposit  the  casket  in  the  cavity  beneath  the  cor- 
ner-stone, and  may  the  Great  Architect  of  the  Uni- 
verse, in  his  wisdom,  grant  that  ages  on  ages  shall  pass 
away  ere  it  again  be  seen  of  men. 

Grand  Treasurer,  assisted  by  the  Grand  Secretary,  will  place  the  casket 
in  the  cavity  prepared.  During  this  ceremony  there  should  be  instrumental 
music.  Grand  Treasurer  reports : 

Most  Worshipful  Grand  Master,  your  orders  have 
been  duly  executed. 


Principal  Architect  delivers  the  working  tools  to  the  Grand  Master,  who 
retains  the  trowel,  and  presents  the  square,  level  and  plumb  to  the  Deputy 
Grand  Master,  Senior  and  Junior  Grand  Wardens,  respectively,  saying: 


68 


CEREMONIALS. 


Right  Worshipful  Brethren,  you  will  receive  the 
implements  of  your  office.  With  your  assistance  and 
that  of  the  Craft,  I will  now  proceed  to  lay  the  corner- 
stone of  this  edifice,  according  to  the  custom  of  our 
fraternity.  Brother  Grand  Marshal,  you  will  direct  the 
Craftsmen  to  furnish  the  cement,  and  prepare  to  lower 
the  stone. 


The  Grand  Master  will  then  spread  a portion  of  the  cement.  The  stone 
is  then  lowered  slowly  one-third  the  distance,  during  which  there  should  be 
appropriate  music.  When  the  .stone  is  stopped,  the  grand  honor”^  is  given 
once,  by  all  the  brethren,  under  the  direction  of  the  Grand  Marshal.  The 
stone  is  again  lowered  as  before,  accompanied  by  music;  when  it  is  stopped, 
the  (iRAND  HONORS  are  given  twice;  the  stone  is  lowered  for  the  third  time, 
with  music.  When  it  is  in  place,  the  grand  honors  are  given  thrice.  The 
Grand  Master  then  says: 


R.  W.  Deputy  Grand  Master,  what  is  the  proper 
implement  of  your  office  ? 

D.  G.  Master.  The  Square. 


G.  M.  What  are  its  moral  and  Masonic  uses  ? 


I),  (r.  M.  To  square  our  actions  by  the  rule  of 
virtue,  and  prove  our  work. 


G.  M.  Apply  the  implement  of  your  office  to  that 
portion  of  the  corner-stone,  and  make  report. 


The  Square  is  applied  to  the  four  upper  corners. 

D.  Gi.  M.  Most  Worshipful  Grand  Master,  I find 
the  stone  to  be  square.  The  Craftsmen  have  done  their 
duty. 


* See  foot  note*  page  21,  for  information  in  regard  to  gkand  honors. 


LAYING  CORNER-STONES. 


69 


G.  M-  R.  W.  Senior  Grand  Warden,  what  is  the 
proper  implement  of  your  office? 

.s:  G.  IV.  The  Level. 

G.  M.  What  are  its  moral  and  Masonic  uses? 

S.  G.  IV.  Morally,  it  teaches  Equality;  and  by  it 
we  prove  our  work. 

G.  M.  Apply  the  implement  of  your  office  to  that 
portion  of  the  corner-stone  that  needs  to  be  proved, 
and  make  report. 

Level  is  applied  to  the  top  surface. 

S.  G.  IV.  Most  Worshipful  Grand  Master,  I find 
the  stone  to  be  level.  The  Craftsmen  have  done  their 
duty. 

G.  M.  R.  W.  junior  Grand  Warden,  what  is  the 
proper  implement  of  your  office  ? 

y.  G.  PV.  The  Plumb. 

G.  M.  What  are  its  moral  and  Masonic  uses  ? 

y.  G.  W.  Morally,  it  teaches  rectitude  of  conduct  ; 
and  by  it  we  prove  our  work. 

G.  M.  Apply  the  instrument  of  your  office  to  that 
portion  of  the  corner-stone,  and  make  report. 

The  Plumb  is  applied  to  the  sides  of  the  stone. 

y.  G.  IV.  Most  Worshipful  Grand  Master,  I find 
the  stone  to  be  plumb.  The  Craftsmen  have  done  their 
duty. 


70 


CEREMONIALS. 


Grand  Master  (striking  the  stone  three  times  with  his  gavel)  says: 

This  corner-stone  has  been  tested  by  the  proper 
implements  of  Masonry.  I find  that  the  Craftsmen 
have  skillfully  and  faithfully  done  their  duty ; and  I do 
declare  the  stone  to  be  well  formed  and  trusty,  truly 
laid,  and  correctly  proved  according  to  the  rules  of 
our  Ancient  Craft.  May  the  building  be  conducted 
and  completed  amid  the  blessings  of  Plenty,  Health 
and  Peace. 

Response  by  the  Craft.  So  mote  it  be. 

Grand  Master.  Brother  Grand  Marshal,  you  will 
present  the  elements  of  consecration  to  the  proper 
officers. 

Grand  Marshal  presents  Vessel  of  Corn  to  the  D.  G.  M. ; the  Wine  to  the 
S.  G.  W.  ; and  the  Oil  to  the  J.  G.  W. 

Deputy  Grand  Master  advances  with  the  Corn,  scattering  it  on  the  stone, 
and  says: 


I scatter  this  Corn  as  an  emblem  of  Plenty ; may  the 
blessings  of  bounteous  Heaven  be  showered  upon  us, 
and  upon  all  like  patriotic  and  important  undertakings, 
and  inspire  the  hearts  of  the  people  with  virtue,  wisdom 
and  gratitude. 

Response  by  the  Craft.  So  mote  it  be. 

Senior  Grand  Warden  advances  with  the  Vessel  of  Wine,  pouring  it  on 
the  stone,  and  says: 


I pour  this  Wine  as  an  emblem  of  Joy  and  Gladness. 
May  the  great  Ruler  of  the  Universe  bless  and  prosper 
our  National,  State  and  City  Governments;  preserve 


LAYING  CORNER-STONES. 


71 


the  union  of  the  States  in  harmony  and  brotherly  love, 
which  shall  endure  through  all  time. 

Response  by  the  Craft.  So  mote  it  be. 

Junior  Grand  Warden  advances  with  the  Vessel  of  Oil,  pouring  it  on  the 
stone,  saying: 

I pour  this  Oil  as  an  emblem  of  Peace;  may  its 
blessings  abide  with  us  continually ; and  may  the  Grand 
Master  of  Heaven  and  Earth  shelter  and  protect  the 
widow  and  orphan,  and  vouchsafe  to  them,  and  to  the 
bereaved,  the  afflicted  and  sorrowing,  everywhere,  the 
enjoyment  of  every  good  and  perfect  gift. 

Response  by  the  Craft.  So  mote  it  be. 

Grand  Master,  extending  his  hands,  pronounces  the  following  invocation : 

May  Corn,  Wine  and  Oil,  and  all  the  necessaries  of 
life,  abound  among  men  throughout  the  world.  May 
the  blessing  of  Almighty  God  be  upon  this  under- 
taking. May  He  protect  the  workmen  from  every 
accident.  May  the  structure  here  to  be  erected,  be 
planned  with  Wisdom,  supported  by  Strength,  and 
adorned  in  Beauty,  and  may  it  be  preserved  to  the 
latest  ages,  a monument  to  the  energy  and  liberality  of 
its  founders. 

Response  by  the  Craft.  So  mote  it  be. 

(If  convenient,  it  would  be  appropriate  at  this  point  for  the  Grand  Stew- 
ards to  decorate  the  stone  with  flowers;  during  which  the  Choir  will  chant.) 

Grand  Master,  addressing  the  Principal  Architect,  says : 


72 


CKREMONIALS. 


Worthy  sir,  (orbrother,)  having  thus,  as  Grand  Master 
of  Masons,  laid  the  corner-stone  of  this  structure,  I 
now  return  to  you  these  implements  of  operative  Ma- 
sonry, (presents  square,  level  and  plumb,)  having  full  Confidence  in 

your  skill  and  capacity  to  perform  the  important  duties 
confided  to  you,  to  the  satisfaction  of  those  who  have 
entrusted  you  with  their  fulfillment. 

The  Grand  Master  will  then  make  report  of  his  doings,  as  follows: 

I have  the  honor  to  report,  that  in  compliance  with 
the  recjuest  of  the  proper  authorities,  the  corner-stone 

of  the  buildingf  to  be  erected  on  this 

site,  has  been  laid  succe.ssfully,  with  the  ancient  cere- 
monies of  the  Craft.  The  Brother  Grand  Marshal  will 
therefore  make  the  proclamation. 

iiri^and  Marshal.  In  the  name  of  the  Most  Wor- 
shipful Grand  Lodge  of  Free  and  Accepted  Masons  of 
the  State  of  Illinois,  I now  proclaim  that  the  corner- 
stone of  the  structure  to  be  erected,  has  this  day  been 
found  trtie  and  triisiy,  and  laid  according  to  the  old 
customs,  by  the  Grand  Master  of  Masons. 

All  present  will  now  join  in  singing  a 

CLOSING  ODE, 

After  winch,  may  be  delivered  a suitable 

ORATION. 

Crand  Chaplain,  at  the  conclusion  of  this  Oration,  will  pronounce  the 
following,  or  some  suitable 


1.AV1NG  corner-stones. 


73 


BENEDICTION.  , 

Glory  be  to  God  on  High,  and  on  earth  peace,  good 
will  toward  men  ! O Lord,  we  most  heartily  beseech 
Thee  with  Thy  favor  to  behold  and  bless  this  assem- 
blage ; pour  down  Thy  mercies,  like  the  dew  that  falls 
upon  the  mountains,  upon  Thy  servants  engaged  in  the 
solemn  ceremonies  of  this  day.  Bless,  we  pray  Thee, 
all  the  workmen  who  shall  be  engaged  in  the  erection 
of  this  edifige ; keep  them  from  all  forms  of  accidents 
and  harm ; grant  them  in  health  and  prosperity  to  live  ; 
and  finally,  we  hope,  after  this  life,  through  Thy  mercy 
and  forgiveness,  to  attain  everlasting  joy  and  felicity  in 
Thy  bright  mansion,  in  Thy  holy  temple,  not  made  with 
hands,  eternal  in  the  heavens.  Amen. 

Response.  So  mote  it  be. 

After  which,  the  Grand  Lodge,  with  escort,  returns  to  the  place  from 
whence  it  started,  and  is  closed. 

The  Lodges,  and  other  Masonic  Bodies,  return  to  their  respective  halls. 


10 


MASONIC  FUNERAL  SERVICES, 

WITH  FULL  INSTRUCTIONS  FOR  CONDUCTING  I'HE  SAME,  PREPARED  AND  ARRANGED 
BY  ORDER  OF  THE  M.  W.  GRAND  LODGE  F.  & A.  M.  OF  THE  STATE  OF 
ILLINOIS,  FOR  THE  USE  OF  ITS  CONSTITUENT  LODGES. 


The  Ceremonies  which  are  observed  on  the  occasion  of  funerals,  are  per- 
formed as  a melancholy  Masonic  duty,  and  as  a token  of  respect  and  frater- 
nal affection  to  the  memory  of  the  departed  brother. 

The  Mortuary  Ceremonies,  etc.,  as  herein  compiled,  are  divided  into 
Four  Chapters: 

Chapter  I. — Comprises  full  Instruction  for  the  government  of  those 
who  may  officiate,  or  otherwise  take  part,  in  the  proceedings,  ceremonials 
and  services,  prescribed  in  the  chapters  which  follow. 

Chapter  1 1. — Prescribes  the  proceedings  to  be  observed  at  an  Emergent 
Communication  of  the  Lodge,  when  the  funeral  services  are  to  take  place 
elsewhere. 

Chapter  III. — Prescribes  the  ceremonials  and  ritual  to  be  observed  when 
the  deceased  brother  is  to  be  interred  at  some  distant  place,  where  the  breth- 
ren cannot  attend,  and  the  funeral  services  are  therefore  to  be  conducted 
in  a Church,  in  the  Lodge  room,  in  the  house  of  the  deceased,  or  in  some 
place  other  than  at  the  grave. 

Chapter  IV. — Prescribes  the  ceremonies  and  ritual  to  be  observed  when 
the  funeral  services  are  to  be  conducted  only  at  the  grave. 

CHAPTER  I. 


GENERAL  INSTRUCTIONS — REQUIREMENTS. 

I.  No  brother  should  be  buried  with  the  formalities  of  Masonry  unless 
he  shall  have  made  such  request,  or  at  the  request  of  his  family  or  some  near 


76 


CEREMONIALS. 


relative,  formally  made  to  the  master,  or  the  hedge  of  which  he  was  a mem- 
ber at  the  time  of  his  death. 

sojournp:rs  and  non- affit.i axes. 

II.  In  case  of  the  death  of  a brother  who  is  a member  of  a distant  Lodge, 
the  Lodge  in  whose  jurisdiction  he  may  have  died  may  proceed,  if  necessary, 
without  any  formal  request,  to  perform  the  ceremonies  of  Masonic  burial ; 
if  there  be  more  than  one  lodge  in  the  place,  then  the  duty  will  devolve  upon 
the  oldest  Lodge,  unless  otherwise  mutually  arranged. 

The  same  instructions  may  apply  in  case  of  the  death  of  a non-affiliated 
Mason,  except  that  the  burial  of  such,  with  the  formalities  of  Masonry,  is 
optional  with  the  Lodge  or  Lodges  in  whose  jurisdiction  he  may  die  or  may 
be  interred. 

FKIXOW-CRAFTS  AND  ENTERED  APPRENTICES. 

in.  Fellow-Crafts  or  Entered  Apprentices  are  not  entitled  to  these 
obsequies,  nor  are  they  allowed  to  unite  as  Masons  in  the  funeral  of  a 
brother. 


PROHIBITION. 

IV.  No  Lodge  or  body  of  Masons  can  unite  in  the  obsequies  ot  a per- 
son not  a Mason  without  the  written  authority  of  the  Grand  Master. 

MIXED  PROCESSIONS. 

V.  Whenever  civic  societies,  the  military,  or  other  organizations,  may 
constitute  a part  of  a funeral  procession,  or  otherwise  unite  with  the  assem- 
bly, the  body  of  the  deceased  must  be  in  charge  of  the  Lodge  having  juris- 
diction. 

The  Masonic  services  should,  in  all  respects,  be  conducted  exclusively  by 
the  Lodge  having  jurisdiction,  and  as  if  none  but  Masons  were  in  attend- 
ance. A Masonic  Lodge  should  not  take  part  in  funeral  services  when  con- 
ducted by  any  other  organization. 

WHEN  COMPOSED  OF  SEVERAL  LODGES. 

VI.  When  a number  of  independent  Lodges  or  other  Masonic  bodies 
join  in  a funeral  procession,  they  will  be  governed,  as  far  as  applicable,  by 
these  general  instructions. 

Each  Lodge  should  have  a Marshal,  who  will  act  as  aids  to  consult  with, 
and  receive  instructions  from  the  Chief  Marshal,  who,  as  a rule,  should  be 
the  Marshal  of  the  Lodge  having  charge  of  the  funeral,  and  whose  duty  it  is 
to  assign  to  each  lodge  or  other  body  a proper  place  in  the  procession. 
Lodges  should  be  located  in  a procession  in  numerical  order,  with  the  oldest 
Lodge  on  the  left;  provided,  however,  that  the  Lodge  in  charge  of  the  fun- 
eral should  occupy  the  extreme  left,  next  to  and  in  front  of  the  remains. 


MASONIC  FUNERALS. 


77 


GRAND  OFFICERS. 

VII.  If  the  deceased  was  a Grand  or  Past  Grand  Officer,  the  present 
Grand  Officers  and  District  Deputies  should  be  invited  to  attend  the  funeral. 
In  case  of  the  presence  of  either  the  Grand  Master.  Deputy  Grand  Master, 
or  the  Grand  Wardens,  the  Master  of  the  Lodge  having  jurisdiction  should 
invite  the  Grand  Officer  present,  highest  in  rank,  to  conduct  the  burial  ser- 
vice. If  either  of  the  four  officers  named  join  in  a general  procession,  their 
place  will  be  next  after  the  Master  of  the  officiating  Lodge,  in  the  order  of 
their  rank,  supported  on  the  right  and  left  flanks  by  two  special  Deacons 
with  rods. 

If  the  Grand  Master,  Deputy  Grand  Master,  or  Past  Grand  or  Deputy 
Grand  Master  is  present,  the  book  of  constitutions  should  be  carried  before 
him. 

KNIGHTS  TEMPLAR. 

VIII.  If  the  deceased  brother  was  a Knight  Templar,  and  the  CoinrnaiD 
dery  of  which  he  was  a member  signify  a desire  to  join  the  funeral  proces- 
.sion,  it  should  be  assigned  a place  immediately  in  advance  of  the  Master 
Masons.  In  marching  from  the  Lodge  room  to  the  house  of  the  deceased, 
or  to  a Church,  and  from  thence  to  the  grave,  if  mutually  agreeable,  the 
Commandery  may  act  as  an  escort  to  the  Lodge  or  Lodges. 

During  the  Masonic  services  at  the  house,  Church,  or  at  the  grave,  the 
Knights  Templar  should  form  an  ''oblong  square,"  outside  of  and  parallel 
to  that  formed  by  the  Master  Masons. 

RULES  GOVERNING  J'ROCESSIONS. 

IX.  A Masonic  procession  should  be  governed  by  the  discipline  of  the 
Lodge  room ; therefore  the  utmost  decorum  should  be  observed  during  the 
march,  and  while  engaged  in  the  services.  Conversation  in  the  ranks  should 
be  avoided  as  far  as  possible.  No  brother  can  leave  the  procession  without 
express  permission  from  the  Master,  but  all  should  return  to  the  Lodge 
room  and  remain  until  the  Lodge  is  closed.  In  forming  a procession  the 
brethren  should  be  formed  in  two  ranks,  the  tallest  on  the  right.  In  march- 
ing, the  files  should  be  flye  feet  apart,  each  way,  which  intervals  are  to  be 
carefully  preserved  during  the  march,  each  brother  to  “cover  his  file  leader,” 
being  particular  that  all  keep  step.  Musicians,  if  any,  should  always  be 
placed  on  the  right,  or  at  the  head  of  a Masonic  procession.  The  Marshal 
may  ride  or  walk  on  the  left  flank  of  the  procession.  A procession  should 
return  to  the  Lodge  room  in  the  same  order  as  it  sets  out. 

DRESS  AND  TRIMMINGS. 

X.  The  proper  dress  to  be  worn  at  a Masonic  funeral  is  black  or  dark 
clothing,  a black  dress  (silk)  hat,  black  neck-tie,  white  gloves,  a plain  white 
apron,  a black  crape  band,  or  rosette  with  streamers,  attached  to  the  left  arm, 
above  the  elbow,  and  a sprig  of  evergreen  on  the  left  breast.  The  Master’s 


78 


CEREMONIALS. 


gavel,  Wardens’  columns,  the  Deacons’  and  Stewards’  rods,  the  Tyler’s 
sword,  and  the  Marshal’s  baton,  should  be  suitably  trimmed  with  black  crape, 
neatly  tied  with  narrow  white  ribbon.  The  officers  of  the  Lodge  should  wear 
their  respective  jewels.  Grand  Officers  and  Past  Officers  of  Grand  or  con- 
stituent lodges  may  also  wear  their  official  jewels.  No  walking-sticks  or 
umbrellas  should  be  carried  in  the  procession. 

The  Holy  Bible  should  be  opened  at  the  12th  chapter  of  Ecclesiastics, 
with  the  square  on  one  page,  and  the  compasses  on  the  other,  secured  by  a 
fine  white  cord.  The  three  Great  Lights  thus  arranged  should  be  covered 
or  trimmed  with  black  crape,  neatly  tied  with  narrow  white  ribbon,  and 
placed  on  a board  or  cushion  covered  with  black  material,  properly  arranged 
for  carrying.  The  Great  Lights  should  be  borne  in  a funeral  procession  by 
the  oldest  member  of  the  officiating  Lodge. 

PALL-BEARERS. 

XL  The  pall-bearers  (usually  six  in  number)  should  be  appointed  by  the 
Master,  a due  regard  being  had  to  their  rank  and  age.  In  addition  to  the  dress 
jirescribed  for  the  brethren  (paragraph  IX.)  three  of  the  pall-bearers  should 
wear  white  scarfs  resting  on  the  right  shoulder,  ends  crossed  at  the  left  hip, 
secured  by  a white  rosette  with  a black  center.  The  other  three  should  wear 
like  scarfs  from  left  shoulder  to  right  hip,  with  evergreen  and  crape  on  right 
breast  and  arm,  thus  securing  uniformity  in  appearance  while  performing 
the  duties  assigned  to  them.  Three  will  march  on  the  right  and  three  on  the 
left  of  the  hearse,  according  to  the  arrangement  of  their  scarfs. 

DUTIES  OF  THE  MASTER. 

XI I . The  Master  of  the  Lodge  having  received  notice  of  the  death  of  a 
brother  Master  Mason,  he  should  confer  with  the  family  of  deceased,  and 
learn  whether  or  not  they  desire  the  funeral  to  be  conducted  by  the  Lodge ; 
if  decided  in  the  affirmative,  the  time  should  be  agreed  upon,  after  which  the 
Master  will  order  the  Secretary  to  notify  all  resident  members  of  the  time 
and  place  of  convening  the  Lodge.  As  many  neighboring  Lodges  and  other 
Masonic  bodies  may  be  invited  as  the  Master  may  deem  proper ; but  the 
funeral  should  be  under  the  direction  of  the  Master  of  the  Lodge  of  which 
the  deceased  was  a member,  or  which  may  otherwise  have  jurisdiction. 

EM ER GENT  COMM U N IC ATION S. 

XIII.  When  a Lodge  is  opened  for  funeral  purposes,  it  should  be  re- 
corded as  an  emergent  communication.  The  Secretary  should  have  prepared 
an  “ obituary  roll,’’  on  which  should  be  inscribed  the  name,  date  of  birth, 
age,  date  of  initiation,  passing  and  raising,  or  affiliation,  also  date  of  death 
of  the  deceased  brother ; that  the  funeral  ceremonies  were  performed  by  the 
Lodge,  and  any  matters  which  may  be  deemed  appropriate  or  of  special 


MASONIC  FUNERALS. 


79 


interest  to  the  Lodge.  At  the  proper  time  this  roll  should  be  read  by  the 
vSecretary,  and  finally  be  deposited  in  the  archives  of  the  Lodge. 

The  Marshal  appointed  for  the  occasion  should  see  that  all  the  jewels 
and  other  paraphernalia  are  in  readiness,  and  that  every  brother  is  properly 
provided  with  apron,  gloves,  crape  and  evergreens,  and  give  the  necessary 
instruction  for  forming  the  brethren  in  procession,  and  specify  the  line  of 
march.  He  should  also  take  with  him  an  apron  to  be  used  during  the 
services. 

The  Master  will  give  full  instruction  before  the  procession  is  formed,  as 
to  the  proper  time  and  way  of  giving  the  “ Grand  honors,”  the  circumambu- 
lation  of  the  grave,  and  the  manner  of  depositing  the  evergreen,  etc. 

CARRIAGES  OR  OTHER  CONVEYANCES. 

XIV.  If  a procession  proceed  to  the  place  of  interment  in  carriages  or 
other  conveyances,  the  brethren  should,  as  far  as  practicable,  ride  in  the 
same  order  as  prescribed  for  marching.  The  pall-bearers  should  ride  next 
in  advance  of  the  hearse,  the  Marshal  will  ride  m the  front  carriage.  On 
arrival  within  a suitable  distance  from  the  cemetery,  the  brethren  will  alight, 
re-form  the  procession,  and  march  to  the  grave  or  vault,  when  the  prescribed 
services  will  take  place. 

XV.  A portion  of  the  ritual  in  either  of  the  several  services  may  be 
omitted  at  the  option  of  the  Master,  whenever  deemed  necessary  on  account 
of  the  inclemency  of  the  weather  or  want  of  time,  etc. 


4i^NoTE. — Wherever  the  Roman  numerals  in  parenthesis  occur,  they  refer  to  the  paragraph 
correspondingly  numbered  in  the  chapter  of  Instructions^  which  should  be  consulted. 


CHAPTER  H. 

PROCEEDINGS  IN  THE  LODGE  ROOM. 

The  Lodge  will  be  formally  but  briefly  opened  on  the  Third  Degree  (see 
X.  and  XIII.)  After  prayer  by  the  Chaplain,  a suitable  piece  of  music  may 
follow.  The  Master  will  then  announce  the  object  of  the  meeting,  and  allude 
to  the  deceased  brother  as  he  may  deem  proper,  or  he  may  reserve  his  re- 
marks until  the  services  are  performed;  any  other  brother  present  may  also 
make  such  remarks  upon  the  life  and  character  of  the  deceased  as  the  occa- 
sion may  justify.  The  Master  will  then  read  aloud  the  “ obituary  roll”  (see 
XIII.) ; upon  concluding  he  will  return  it  to  the  Secretary,  who  will  carry  the 
same  to  the  place  where  the  services  are  to  be  conducted,  and  finally  return 
it  to  be  deposited  in  the  archives  of  the  lodge.  Under  the  direction  of  the 
Marshal  (see  XIII.),  the  brethren  will  form  in  the  following  order  (see  V. , 
VL,  VIL,  VHL,  IX.,  XL,  XV.): 


8o 


ceremonials. 


PROCESSION. 

Tyler, 

(with  drawn  sword.) 

Master  Masons. 
Treasurer  and  Secretary. 
Senior  and  Junior  Wardens. 
Steward,  Three  Great  Lights, 

(with  rod.)  (carried  by  oldest  member  of  Lodge.) 

Chaplain. 

Pall  Bearers. 

Junior  Deacon,  Worshipful  Master. 

(with  rod.) 


Steward, 

(with  rod.) 


Senior  Deacon, 

(with  rod.) 


MOVEMENT  OF  PROCESSION. 

When  the  right  of  the  line  reaches  the  Church  the  procession  will  halt, 
and  Open  to  the  right  and  left,  facing  inward.  The  Marshal,  accompanied  by 
the  Tyler,  will  pass  down  between  the  two  lines,  until  they  reach  the  Master 
(or  the  officiating  Grand  Officer  referred  to  in  VII,),  who,  uncovered,  will  be 
escorted  through  the  lines  to  the  Church,  followed  by  the  officers  and 
the  brethren  from  the  left  of  the  lines,  thus  reversing  the  order  of  the  proces- 
sion. 

During  these  maneuvers  each  and  every  brother  will  raise  his  hat,  and 
hold  it  a few  inches  above  his  head,  until  entering  the  Church,  when  hats 
will  be  disposed  of  as  circumstances  may  suggest.* 

MASONIC  SERVICE  AT  THE  CHURCH,  LODGE-ROOM  OR 
OTHER  EDIFICE. 

Note. — The  following  service  is  intended  to  be  used  only  when  a deceased  brother  is  to  be  in- 
terred at  some  place  where  the  brethren  cannot  attend,  and  it  is  desirable  to  perform  the  ceremony 
before  the  rem.ains  are  taken  hence,  or  when  the  remains  are  placed  in  a vault. 

After  the  church  services  have  been  concluded,  the  Master  will  take  his 
place  at  the  head  of  the  coffin,  the  Senior  Warden  at  the  foot,  facing  the 
Master,  his  column  on  the  floor,  erect.  The  Junior  Warden  will  occupy  a 
position  on  the  left,  midway  between  the  Master  and  Senior  Warden,  his 
column  prostrate  on  the  floor.  The  brethren  will  form  an  oblong  square. 
Should  Knights  Templar  be  present,  they  will  form  a like  square  outside  the 


♦Should  Church  services  be  held  at  the  dwelling  of  the  deceased,  and  it  would  be  inconvenient 
for  all  of  the  brethren  to  enter,  the  maneuvers  on  the  part  of  the  procession,  upon  arriving  at  the 
house,  will  be  omitted.  [The  brethren  will  “stand  fast”  until  the  religious  services  are  concluded 
when  the  Master,  followed  by  the  Marshal  and  Pall  Bearers,  will  enter  the  house.  The  Master 
will  deposit  an  apron  upon  the  coffin.  The  Pall  Bearers,  preceded  by  the  Marshal,  will  bear  the 
remains  to  the  hearse,  the  Master  following.  ) The  movements  of  the  procession  as  above  should  be 
carried  out  when  the  Masonic  burial  service  is  to  be  conducted  in  a church  or  other  edifice,  or  at  a 
vault,  but  when  the  services  are  to  be  conducted  at  the  grave,  as  herein  prescribed,  the  instructions 
included  within  the  brackets  of  this  foot  note  only  are  to  be  observed. 


MASONIC  FUNERALS. 


8l 


brethren.  The  family  of  deceased  may  occupy  the  space  near  the  end  of 
square,  or  be  seated  elsewhere. 

The  following  diagram  shows  the  relative  positions  of  all; 


o 

o 

o 

o 

o 


o 

'd 

u 

as 

<D 


o ^ 


o o 


o o 


o o 


o 

o 

H 

o 

o 


c/5 

S-4 


PQ 


o 

o 


a, 


o 


o 


o 


o 


o 


o 


o 


o 


o 


o 


o 

o 


o 

o 


FAMIl.Y. 


S W. 

□ 


^ I 


Great 


Lights. 


W.  M. 

Chaplain.  Marshal. 


Secretary. 


Treasurer. 


Past  Masters. 


o ° 


c+ 

a> 

P 

p. 


O 

o 

o 

o 


o 


o 


o 


o 


o 


o 


o 


o 


f)  P Cfi 


td 
o n> 


o 

o 

o 

o 

o 

o 

o 

o 

o 


oQJ-D.  oooooo  Tyler,  o o o o o o S.  D.  Q ^ 
o o o o o o o o o o K.  T.  Staff,  oooooooooo 


THE  SERVICES 

Will  commence  by  the  brethren  all  kneeling,  when  the  Chaplaiti  will  repeat 
the  following,  or  some  other  appropriate 

PRAYER: 

Most  Gracious  God,  Great  Architect  of  the  Uni- 
verse, Author  of  all  good,  and  Giver  of  all  mercy,  pour 
down,  we  implore  Thee,  Thy  blessings  upon  us,  and 


11 


82 


CEREMONIALS. 


grant  that  the  solemnity  of  this  occasion  may  bind  us 
yet  closer  together  in  the  bonds  of  brotherly  love. 

May  the  present  instance  of  mortality  forcibly  re- 
mind us  of  our  approaching  and  inevitable  de.stiny,  and, 
weaning  our  affections  from  the  things  of  this  world, 
fix  them  more  devotedly  on  Thee,  our  only  safe  refuge 
in  the  hour  of  need.  And  grant,  O God ! that  when 
the  summons  shall  come  for  us  to  quit  our  transitory 
Lodge  on  earth,  the  light  which  is  from  above  shall 
dispel  the  encircling  gloom ; and  that  departing  hence 
with  faith  in  Thee,  in  full  hope  of  a resurrection,  and 
in  charity  with  all  men,  we  may,  through  Thy  favor, 
be  admitted  to  Thy  Celestial  Lodge  on  high,  to  partake 
in  everlasting  re-union  with  the  .souls  of  our  departed 
friends  and  brethren,  the  just  rewards  of  a pious  and 
virtuous  life. 

The  Chaplain  will  continue,  and  all  the  brethren  will  join  in  repeating;  as 
follows: 

Our  bather  which  art  in  Heaven,  hallowed  be  Thy 
name.  Thy  kingdom  come,  I'hy  will  be  done  in  earth, 
as  it  is  in  Heaven.  Give  us  this  day  our  daily  bread ; 
and  forgive  us  our  debts  as  we  forgive  our  debtors  ; 
and  lead  us  not  into  temptation,  but  deliver  us  from 
evil ; for  bhine  is  the  Kingdom,  and  the  Power,  and  the 
Glory,  forever.  Amen. 

All  arise  and  remain  standing  during  the  singing  of  appropriate  music 
by  the  choir,  after  which  the  Master  says: 

Brethren,  we  are  called  upon  by  the  mandate  of 
that  messenger  against  whose  free  entrance  within  the 
circle  of  our  I'raternity  the  barred  doors  and  byler’s 


MASONIC  FUNERALS. 


83 


weapon  offer  no  impediment,  to  mourn  the  loss  of  one 
of  oiir  associates. 

'J'he  Mortal  remains  of  our  beloved  Brother 

lie  in  their  narrow  house  before  us, 

overtaken  by  that  fate  which  must  sooner  or  later  over- 
take us,  and  which  no  power  or  station,  no  virtue  or 
bravery,  no  wealth  or  honor,  no  tears  of  friends  or 
kindred,  can  avert;  teaching  an  impressive  lesson,  con- 
tinually repeated,  yet  soon  forgotten,  that  every  one  of 
us  must  ere  long  pass  through  the  valley  of  the  shadow, 
to  be  known  on  earth  no  more. 

Yea,  my  brethren  ; we  are  all  born  to  die.  We  fol- 
low our  friends  to  the  brink  of  the  grave,  and  standing 
on  the  shore  of  a vast  ocean,  gaze  with  exquisite  anxi- 
ety, until  its  mists  veil  them  from  our  mortal  sight  for- 
ever. 

d'he  younger  are  crowding  the  next  older  off  the 
stage  of  action  as  though  each  were  anxious  to  exhibit 
his  part  in  the  strange  and  ever  changefid  drama  of 
human  life.  The  statesman,  hero,  philosopher  or  theo- 
logian, whose  eloquence  or  arms  have  shaken  empires ; 
who  have  united  the  language  of  earth  and  heaven,  or 
plucked  proud  laurels  from  the  fields  of  war,  are  rest- 
ing in  eternal  silence;  their  hearts  that  once  beat  high 
with  hopes  of  life  and  fame,  are  now  stilled ; and  for 
them  earth’s  dim  glories  have  faded,  like  stars  of  morn- 
ing, in  the  increasing  dawn  of  immortality. 

Not  only  are  these  gone,  but  even  the  youth,  whose 
cheeks  are  mantled  with  sunny  smiles,  and  whose  eye 
sparkles  in  all  the  brilliancy  of  health,  must  soon  be- 
come an  inanimate  lump  of  clay.  Tho.se  lips  that  now 


84 


CEREAtONIALS. 


echo  the  sentiments  of  inexperience,  must  be  silent; 
and  the  lieart  that  now  palpitates  and  rejoices  at  the 
sound  of  pleasure,  rest  in  unbroken  quiet  in  the  man- 
sions of  the  dead. 

The  sad  and  solemn  scene  now  before  us  stirs  up 
these  reflections  with  a force  and  vivid  power  which 
we  have  not  hitherto  felt.  He  who  now  slumbers  in 
that  last  long  unbroken  sleep  of  death,  was  our  brother. 
With  him  we  have  walked  the  pilgrimage  of  life,  and 
kept  ward  and  watch  together  in  its  vicissitudes  and 
trials.  He  is  now  removed  beyond  the  effect  of  our 
praise  or  censure.  We  remember  him  in  scenes  to 
which  the  world  was  not  a witness,  and  when  the  bet- 
ter feelings  of  humanity  were  exhibited  without  dis- 
guise. That  he  had  his  faults  and  foibles,  is  but  to 
repeat  what  his  mortality  demonstrates — that  he  had  a 
human  nature,  not  divine.  Over  these  errors,  whatever 
they  may  have  been,  we  cast,  while  living,  the  mantle 
of  charity;  it  should  with  much  more  reason  enshroud 
him  in  death;  while  the  memory  of  his  virtues  lingers 
in  our  remembrance  and  reflects  its  shining  lustre  be- 
yond the  portals  of  the  tomb. 

Senior  PlSarden,  says:  In  the  midst  of'  life  we  are 
in  death;  of  whom  may  we  seek  for  succor  but  of  Thee, 
O Lord,  who  for  our  sins  art  justly  displeased.  Thou 
knowest.  Lord,  the  secrets  of  our  hearts,  shut  not  Thy 
merciful  ears  to  our  prayer. 

Junior  ll'ardcn,  says:  Lord,  let  me  know  my  end, 
and  the  number  of  my  days;  that  I may  be  certified 
how  long  I have  to  live. 


MASONIC  FUNERALS. 


85 


Response  by  all  the  ht'-cthren.  So  mote  it  be. 

Master,  (holding  the  evergreen,)  says:  This  evergreen  is  an 
emblem  of  our  faith  in  the  immortality  of  the  soul.  By 
this  we  are  remim^ed  that  we  have  an  immortal  jiart 
within  us,  that  shall  survive  the  grave,  and  which  shall 
never,  never,  never  die. 

By  it  we  are  admonished  that  though,  like  our 
brother  whose  remains  lie  before  us,  we  shall  soon  be 
clothed  in  the  habiliments  of  death,  and  our  bodies  de- 
posited in  the  silent  tomb,  yet  through  our  belief  in  the 
mercy  of  God,  we  may  confidently  hope  that  our  souls 
will  bloom  in  eternal  spring. 

The  Master  will  deposit  the  evergreen  upon  the  coffin  and  assume  his 
station,  after  which  the  officers  and  brethren  will  face  to  the  left  and  slowly 
pass  around  the  bier,  each  of  whom  will  silently  deposit,  when  passing  the 
head  of  the  coffin,  the  evergreen.  The  choir  should  sing  a portion  of  Pleyel’s 
or  some  other  appropriate  hymn ; the  Templars  remaining  in  place.  When 
the  circuit  is  made,  the  brethren  will  resume  their  places,  and,  upon  the  order 
of  the  Master,  will  give  the  funeral  grand  honors.*^* 

Master,  will  say:  Now,  my  brethren,  let  us,  who 
are  assembled  around  the  mortal  remains  of  our  de- 
parted friend  and  brother,  see  to  it,  and  so  regulate  our 
lives  by  the  plumb-line  of  Justice — ever  squaring  our 
actions  by  the  rule  of  virtue — that  when  we  are  called 
we  may  be  found  ready,  with  joy  to  obey  the  summons, 
and  go  from  our  labors  on  earth,  fitly  prepared  for  that 
spiritual  building,  that  house  not  made  with  hands, 
eternal  in  the  heavens. 


*The  funeral  grand  honors  should  always  be  given  slowly  and  with  precision.  In  this  service 
they  are  given  in  the  following  manner:  Cross  the  arms  over  the  breast,  the  open  palms  of  the 
hand  resting  upon  the  shoulders;  then  slowly  raise  them  above  the  head,  at  the  same  time  looking 
upward;  finally  let  them  fall  to  a natural  position,  at  the  same  time  slightly  bowing  the  head.  When 
these  movements  are  executed,  the  brethren,  will  audibly  pronounce  the  following  words:  when  the 
arms  are  crossed  on  the  breast,  “ We  cherish  his  memory  here.*’  When  the  hands  are  extended 
above  the  head,  “ And  we  commend  his  spirit  to  God  who  gave  it.”  When  the  hands  fall  to  the 
side,  ”So  mote  it  be.” 


86 


CEREMONIALS. 


The  Secretary,  by  direction  of  the  MavSter,  will  read  aloud  the  “obituary 
roll”  (see  XIIL),  after  which  the  Master  continues,  addressing  the  relatives: 

Our  brother  whose  remains  are  to  be  borne  hence 
and  be  committed  to  the  earth,  was  one  of  our  fraternal 
band,  bound  by  the  same  ties,  and  pledged  to  the  same 
duties.  To  his  bereaved  relatives  and  friends  we  have 
but  little  worldly  consolation  to  offer,  but  we  do  tender 
to  them  our  heartfelt  sympathies;  and  if  the  solemn 
ceremonies,  in  which  we  have  been  engaged,  have  not 
pointed  to  them  a higher  hope  and  a better  consolation, 
then  all  our  condolence  would  be  in  vain. 

Master,  extending  his  hands  towards  the  coffin,  will  say; 

And  now,  beloved  friend  and  brother,  we  bid  thee 
a long,  a last  farwell.  Thou  art  at  rest  from  thy  labors 
— may  it  be  in  holy  peace.  Amen. 

Response  by  the  brethren.  So  mote  it  be. 

Chaplain,  will  repeat  the  following  or  some  other  appropriate 

PRAYER. 

Almighty  and  most  merciful  God,  as  it  has  pleased 
Thee  to  take  from  the  light  of  our  abode  one  dear  to 
our  hearts,  we  beseech  Thee  to  bless  and  sanctify  to  us 
this  dispensation  of  Thy  Provicience.  Inspire  our  hearts 
with  wisdom  from  on  High,  that  we  may  glorify  Thee 
in  all  our  ways.  May  we  realize  that  Thine  all-seeing 
eye  is  upon  us,  and  be  influenced  b)'  the  spirit  of  truth 


MASONIC  FUNERA1,S. 


and  love  to  perfect  obedience,  that  we  may  enjoy  Thy 
divine  approbation  here  below.  And  when  our  toils  on 
earth  shall  have  ceased,  may  we  be  raised  to  the  enjoy- 
ment of  fadeless  light  and  immortal  life  in  that  king- 
dom where  faith  and  hope  shall  end,  and  love  and  joy 
prevail  through  eternal  ages. 

'^And,  Heavenly  Fathei',  in  this  dark  and  trying 
hour  of  calamity  and  sorrow,  ive  humbly  pray  Thee 
to  be  the  father  of  the  fatherless,  and  the  widow  s 
(iod.  Administer  the  consolation  which  they  so  sorely 
need. 

And  Thine,  O Righteous  Father,  shall  be  the  glory 
forever.  Amen. 

Response  by  the  brethren.  So  mote  it  be. 

An  appropriate — 

ORATION 

May  follow,  after  which  the  coffin  should  be  borne  to  the  hearse  by  the  pall- 
bearers, who  may  accompany  the  remains  to  cars  or  other  conveyance. 

The  brethren  will  return  to  the  Lodge-Room.  (vSee  IX.) 

When  the  solemn  rights  of  the  dead  are  to  be  performed  at  the  g7'avt\  the 
proceedings  in  the  Lodge-Room  should  be  the  same  as  prescribed  on  page  q. 
Chapter  II. 

The  procession  from  Lodge-Room  to  house  of  deceased  will  be  formed 
as  prescribed  on  page  8o,  and  from  house  to  place  of  interment  in  the  fol- 
lowing order:  (See  V.,  VI.,  VII.,  VIII.,  IX.,  XI.) 


*The  italicized  portion  of  Prayer  may  be  omitted  when  circumstances  require. 


88 


CEkKMONlALS. 


<1 

rn 

< 


StKVVARI), 
(with  rod.) 


Deacon, 

(with  rod.) 


PROCESSION. 

Tyler, 

(with  drawn  sword.) 


Master  Masons. 
Treasurer  and  Secretary. 
Senior  and  Junior  Wardens. 
Three  Great  Lights, 

(carried  by  oldest  Master  of  Lodge.) 


Chaplain. 

Worshipful  Master. 
The  Body. 


S'I'EWARD, 
(with  rod.) 


Deacon, 

(with  rod.) 


Mourners. 


When  the  procession  from  Lodge-room  reaches  the  house  of  deceased, 
it  will  be  governed  by  the  instructions  included  within  the  brackets  onl}^  in 
foot  note  on  page  8o. 

When  the  head  of  the  procession  arrives  at  the  place  of  interment,  the 
Marshal  will  proceed  to  the  extreme  right  and  give  a signal  by  waving  his 
baton,  when  the  brethren  will  halt,  open  to  the  right  and  left,  facing  inward, 
and  uncover.  The  Marshal,  accompanied  by  the  Tyler,  will  pass  down 
between  the  lines  until  they  reach  the  Master  (or  the  officiating  Grand  Officer 
referred  to  in  VII.)  and  the  Chaplain,  who,  uncovered,  will  advance  to  the 
grave,  followed  by  the  remains  borne  by  the  pall-bearers,  the  family  and 
relatives  of  the  deceased,  and  by  the  brethren  from  the  left  of  the  lines,  thus 
reversing  the  order  of  the  procession. 

The  coffin  will  be  placed  over  the  grave.  The  Senior  Warden  will  place 
his  column  erect  at  the  head  of  the  grave,  and  the  Junior  Warden  will  lay 
his  column  prostrate  at  the  foot  of  the  grave;  and  the  officers  and  brethren 
will  form  in  the  order  shown  in  the  following  diagram.  The  Marshal  should 
give  all  necessary  directions,  giving  his  instructions  in  a subdued  tone; 


MASONIC  FUNERALS. 


89 


FAMILY. 


U 


o 

o 

o 


nd 

u, 

CIS 

0) 

+j 

(n 

o 

o 

o 

o 


Great 


Chaplain. 


Tnglits. 


W,  M. 

J.  W.  S.  W. 

Sec.  Treas. 

Tyler. 

Past  Masters. 


o 

CD 


O 

O 

O 

Marshal,  o 


o 

o 

o 

o 

o 

o 

o 


o 

J.  O D. 


) O O O O O O O O O S.  O 

K.  T.  Staff.  oooooooo( 


O 


Should  there  be  church  service  at  the  grave,  the  Masonic  service  will 
commence  as  soon  as  that  is  concluded. 

SERVICE  AT  THE  GRAVE. 

All  will  uncover,'^  when  the  Chaplain  will  rehearse  the  following,  or  some 
other  appropriate 

PRAYER. 

Unto  Thee,  O CjocI,  the  Father  of  all  spirits,  do  we 
come  in  this  hour  of  bereavement  and  sorrow.  Unto 


* In  conducting  services  at  grave  at  an  inclement  season  of  the  year,  to  avoid  undue  exposure 
to  the  brethren  present,  the  act  of  uncovering  should  be  omitted  by  order  of  the  W.  M.  officiating. 


12 


90 


ceremonials. 


Thee  do  we  send  up  the  cry  of  our  stricken  hearts. 
Thou,  who  dost  mark  the  sparrow’s  fall,  and  number 
even  the  very  hairs  of  our  heads,  look  with  infinite 
compassion  on  our  weakness,  and,  in  this  hour  of  need, 
give  the  strength  which  Thou  alone  canst  impart.  .Stand- 
ing by  the  open  portals  of  this  house  appointed  for 
all  the  living,  we  pray  for  light — for  light  to  illuminate 
the  dark  path  which  our  brother  has  trod  ; for  light  to 
drive  away  all  the  shadows  of  mortality,  and  reveal  to 
our  anxious  souls  those  serene  heights  of  beauty  and 
of  joy,  whither,  we  trust,  our  brother  has  ascended. 

As  we  lay  his  body  in  the  tomb,  may  we  realize  how 
weak  and  impotent  is  every  human  arm  of  strength, 
and  trust  in  Thy  might  alone  for  deliverance  from  the 
dominion  of  death. 

Grant,  we  beseech  Tliee,  Thy  sustaining  grace  to 
these  stricken  and  tearful  mourners  and  bereaved  friends  ; 
that  we  may  find  rest  and  comfort  in  Thee;  that,  relying 
upon  d'hine  infinite  love,  we  may  wait  in  patient  hope 
for  death  to  be  swallowed  up  in  victory.  Amen. 

Response  by  the  bi'ethren.  So  mote  it  be. 

All  will  re-cover,  when  the  Master  will  rehearse  the  following,  or  some 
other  appropriate 

EXHORTATION. 

Brethren  : The  solemn  notes  that  betoken  the  dis- 
solution of  this  earthly  tabernacle  have  again  'alarmed 
our  outer  door,  and  another  spirit  has  been  summonetl 
to  the  land  where  our  fathers  have  gone  before  us. 
Again  are  we  called  to  assemble  among  the  habitations 
of  the  dead,  to  behold  the  “ narrow  house  appointed  for 
all  the  living.”  Here  around  us,  in  that  peace  which 
the  world  cannot  give  or  take  away,  lie  the  unnumbered 


MASONIC  FUNERALS. 


91 


dead.  The  gentle  breeze  fans  their  verdant  covering, 
they  heed  it  not;  the  sunshine  and  the  storm  [lass  over 
them,  antf  they  are  not  disturbed  ; stones  and  lettered 
monuments  symbolize  the  affections  of  surviving  friends, 
yet  no  sound  proceeds  from  them,  save  that  silent  ad- 
monition, “ Seek  ye  the  narrow  path  and  the  straight 
gate  that  lead  unto  eternal  life.” 

We  are  again  called  upon  to  consider  the  uncertainty 
of  human  life,  the  immutable  certainty  of  death,  and  the 
vanity  of  earthly  ambition. 

Decrepitude  and  decay  are  written  upon  every  living 
thing.  The  cradle  and  the  cofhn  stand  in  juxtaposition 
to  each  other,  and  it  is  a melancholy  truth  that  so  soon 
as  we  begin  to  live,  that  moment  also  we  begin  to  die. 
How  often  the  mementoes  of  mortality  cross  our  path  ; 
how  often  the  funeral  bell  tolls  in  our  ears,  and  the 
“mournful  processions”  go  about  the  streets;  yet  how 
seldom  do  we  seriously  consider  our  approaching  fate. 
We  go  on  from  design  to  design,  add  hope  to  hope,  and 
la}’  out  plans  for  the  employment  of  many  years,  until 
we  are  suddenly  alarmed  at  the  approach  of  the  mes- 
senger of  death,  at  a moment  when  we  least  expect 
him,  and  which  we  probably  conclude  to  be  the  meridian 
of  our  existence. 

What,  then,  are  all  the  externals  of  human  dignit}’, 
the  power  of  wealth,  or  the  charms  of  beaut}' — when 
nature  has  paid  her  just  debt? 

Fix  your  eyes  on  the  last  scene,  and  view  life  stript 
of  its  ornaments  and  exposed  in  its  natural  meanness, 
and  you  must  be  persuaded  of  the  utter  emptiness  of 
all  earthly  things  save  those  which  go  to  the  growth 


92 


CEREMONIALS. 


and  perfection  of  individual  character.  In  the  grave  all 
fallacies  are  detected,  all  ranks  are  leveled,  all  distinc- 
tions are  done  away;  here  the  scepter  of  the  prince  and 
the  staff  of.  the  beggar  are  laid  side  by  side. 

Happy,  indeed,  is  it  for  us — and  blessed  the  instru- 
mentalities that  have  made  it  possible — if,  while  we 
here  drop  the  sympathetic  tear  over  the  grave  of  our 
brother,  we  can,  in  the  sincerity  of  our  hearts,  cast 
around  his  foibles,  whatever  they  may  have  been,  the 
broad  mantle  of  charity,  nor  withhold  from  his  memory 
the  commendation  that  his  virtues  claim  at  our  hands. 
Perfection  on  earth  has  never  yet  been  attained ; the 
wisest  as  well  as  the  best  of  men  have  gone  astray. 
Suffer,  then,  the  apologies  of  human  nature  to  plead  for 
him  who  can  no  longer  plead  for  himself.* 

Let  this  event,  my  brethren,  by  which  we  are  re- 
minded at  once  of  our  mortality  and  our  imperfections, 
excite  our  serious  reflections  and  strengthen  our  resolu- 
tions of  amendment.  Let  us  live  in  the  daily  conscious- 
ness that  to  each  one  of  us  the  time  will  come — and  the 
wisest  knows  not  how  soon — when  all  the  transient 
pleasures  of  the  world  will  cease  to  delight,  and  the 
reflections  of  a life  spent  in  the  exercise  of  piety  and 
virtue,  yield  the  only  comfort  and  consolation.  Let  us 
resolve  to  maintain  with  sincerity  the  high  character  of 
our  profession  — our  faith  so  unfaltering  that  we 
shall  be  enabled  ever  to  do  the  risjht  as  God  gives  us 
to  see  the  right ; our  hope  as  bright  as  the  glorious 
mysteries  that  shall  be  revealed  hereafter ; our  charity 


Note. — The  W.  M,  may  continue,  and  complete  the  Exhortation  from  (*)  this  point,  by  recit- 
ing the  language  printed  on  first  page  of  the  Appendix,  as  a substitute  for,  and  in  place  of,  that 
portion  of  the  Exhortation  which  here  follows,  down  to 


^rASONIC  FUNERAI.S. 


93 


as  large  as  the  wants  and  weaknesses  of  our  fellow 
creatures. 

Fitting  ourselves  for  life  will  also  best  fit  us  for 
eternity ; and,  having  here  faithfidly  discharged  the 
great  duties  which  we  owe  to  God,  our  neighbor  and 
ourselves,  the  great  change  will  not  find  us  unprepared; 
but,  come  when  it  may,  we  can  go  forward  joyfully  and 
without  fear  into  the  presence  of  that  All-wise  and 
Beneficent  Judge  to  whom  the  secrets  of  all  hearts  are 
known. 

The  Marshal  will  now  step  forward  and  remove  the  apron  from  the  coffin, 
and  hand  it  to  the  Master.  The  brethren  will  uncover*  while  the  pall-bear- 
ers will  slowly  lower  the  remains  into  the  grave,  during  which  there  may  be 
a chant  by  the  choir,  or  a strain  of  instrumental  music;  after  which  the  breth- 
ren will  re-cover,  and  the  Master,  holding  the  apron  unfolded,  continues: 

THE  LAMBSKIN, 

or  white  apron,  was  the  first  gift  of  Masonry  to  our 
departed  brother ; it  is  an  emblem  of  innocence,  and 
the  badge  of  a Mason.  This  emblem  I now'  deposit  in 
the  grave  of  our  deceased  brother  (drops  it  into  the  grave.)  B y 
this  act  are  we  reminded  of  the  universal  dominion  of 
death  ; the  arm  of  friendship  cannot  interpose  to  prevent 
his  coming ; the  wealth  of  the  world  cannot  purchase 
our  release ; nor  will  the  innocence  of  youth,  nor  the 
charms  of  beauty  propitiate  his  purpose. 

The  officers  and  brethren  holding  the  evergreen  in  their  right  hand. 
Master  continues: 

This  evergreen  is  an  emblem  of  an  enduring  faith  in 
the  immortality  of  the  soul.  By  it  we  are  reminded 
that  we  have  an  immortal  part  within  us  that  shall  sur- 
vive the  grave,  and  which  shall  never,  never,  never 


* See  foot  note,  page  89. 


94 


CEREMONIALS. 


die.  By  it  we  are  admonished  that,  though  like  our 
brother,  whose  remains  we  have  deposited  in  the  bosom 
of  our  mother  earth,  we  too  shall  soon  be  clothed  in 
the  habiliments  of  Deaiii,  and  be  deposited  in  the 
silent  tomb ; yet,  through  our  belief  in  the  mercy  of 
God,  we  may  confidently  hope  that  our  souls  will  bloom 
in  eternal  spring.  This,  too,  I deposit  in  the  grave  (drops  it), 


The  Master  will  resume  his  place,  when  the  officers  and  brethren  will 
face  to  the  left  and  commence  moving  slowly  around  the  grave,  as  each  one 
passes  the  head  of  the  grave,  he  will  deposit  the  evergreen  in  silence ; during 
which  the  choir  should  sing  Pleyel’s  hymn,  or  some  other  appropriate  music, 
or  a dirge  may  be  played.  When  this  is  concluded  the  brethren  will  re.su me 
their  places.  The 

GRAND  HONORS 

will  then  be  given  as  follows:  The  Marshal  in  a subdued  tone  will  say — 


Brethren,  prepare  to  give  the  grand  honors.* 

UNCOVER,! 

Each  brother  will  uncover  and  stoop  forward,  depositing  his  hat  on  the 
ground  at  his  feet,  then  cross  the  arms  on  the  breast,  the  left  uppermost, 
the  open  palms  of  the  hands  resting  upon  the  shoulders;  this  done,  the  Mas- 
ter will  say: 


W e cherish  his  memory  here. 


The  brethren  will  then  raise  their  hands  above  their  heads,  looking  u]>- 
ward,  when  the  Master  will  say: 


We  commend  his  spirit  to  God,  who  gave  it. 


'Phe  brethren  will  then  lower  their  hands  and  extend  them  downwards 
toward  the  grave,  palms  of  the  hands  uppermost,  when  the  Master  will  say: 


And  consign  his  body  to  the  earth. 


All  the  movements  should  be  made  slowly  and  with  the  utmost  precision, 
t See  foot  note,  page  89. 


MASONIC  FUNERALS. 


95 


By  direction  of  the  Marshal,  the  brethren  will  together  stoop  forward, 
take  their  hats  and  re-cover,  and  resume  their  places,  when  the  Secretary, 
by  direction  of  the  Master,  will  read  aloud  the  obituary  roll.  (See  XI if.) 
At  the  conclusion  the  Master  continues  the  ceremony  by  saying — 

From  time  immemorial,  it  has  been  the  custom 
among  the  Fraternity  of  Free  and  Accepted  Masons, 
at  the  request  of  a brother,  or  of  his  family,  to  accom- 
pany his  remains  to  the  place  of  interment,  and  there 
to  deposit  them  with  the  usual  formalities  of  the  Craft. 
In  conformity  to  this  usage,  and  at  the  desire  of  our 
deceased  brother,  whose  memory  we  revere  and  whose 
loss  we  now  deplore,  we  have  assembled  in  the  character 
of  Masons,  to  offer  up  to  his  memory,  before  the  world, 
the  last  tribute  of  our  affection. 

The  Great  Creator  having  been  pleased  out  of  his 
infinite  mercy  to  remove  our  brother  from  the  cares  and 
troubles  of  this  transitory  existence,  to  a state  of  end- 
less duration,  thus  striking  another  link  from  the  frater- 
nal chain  that  binds  us  together,  may  we  who  survive 
him,  be  more  strongly  cemented  in  the  ties  of  union 
and  friendship ; that  during  the  short  space  allotted  to 
us  here,  we  may  wisely  and  usefully  employ  our  time ; 
and  in  the  reciprocal  intercourse  of  kind  and  friendly 
acts  mutually  promote  the  welfare  and  happine.ss  of  each 
other.  Unto  the  grave  we  have  consigned  the  body  of 
our  deceased  brother.  We  can  cheerfully  leave  his 
spirit  in  the  hands  of  a Being  who  doeth  all  things 
well. 

To  those  of  his  immediate  relatives  and  friends  who 
are  most  heart-stricken  at  the  loss  we  have  all  sus- 
tained, we  have  but  little  worldly  consolation  to  offer; 
we  can  only  sincerely,  deeply,  and  most  affectionately 


96 


sympathize  with  them  in  their  bereavement;  but  we  can 
say,  that  He  who  tempers  the  wind  to  the  shorn  lamb, 
looks  down  with  infinite  compassion  upon  the  widow, 
and  the  fatherless,  in  the  hour  of  their  desolation  ; and 
that  their  Heavenly  bather  will  fold  the  arms  of  His 
love  and  protection  around  those  who  put  their  trust  in 
Him. 

The  Master  extending  his  hands  toward  the  grave  continues- 

Soft  and  safe  be  this  the  earthly  bed  of  our  brother ; 
bright  and  glorious  be  his  rising  from  it.  Fragrant  be 
the  acacia  sprig  which  shall  here  flourish.  May  the 
earliest  buds  of  spring  unfold  their  beauties  over  his 
resting  place ; and  in  the  bright  morning  of  the  world’s 
resurrection,  may  his  soul  spring  into  newness  of  life, 
and  expand  in  immortal  beauty  in  realms  beyond  the 
skies.  Until  then,  dear  friend  and  brother,  until  then, 
farewell. 

An  appropriate — 

ODE 

may  follow,  after  which  the  services  will  conclude  with  the  following,  or 
some  other  suitable — 

PRAYER. 

Almighty  God,  we  again  implore  Thy  blessing  as 
we  turn  from  these  solemn  services  to  the  no  less 
solemn  tasks  of  life.  We  have  consigned  the  body  of 
our  brother  to  the  m'ave,  and  with  unfalterinsf  trust  we 
commend  his  spirit  to  d'hy  care.  If  we  feel  that  there 
is  one  le.ss  tie  binding  us  to  earth,  may  we  also  teel 
that  there  is  another  and  a deathless  tie  binding  us  to 
Heaven.  And  there  shall  be  no  night  there,  O blessed 


MASONIC  FUNERALS. 


97 


assurance;  the  last  farewell  spoken;  the  last  sigh  heaved; 
the  last  cry  of  anguish  swallowed  up  in  that  anthem  of 
immortal  joy.  In  our  grief  we  cling  to  Thy  promise, 
that  Thou  wilt,  at  last,  wipe  all  tears  from  off  all  faces. 

Gathering  here  such  fresh  experiences  of  Thy  love, 
catching  here  such  glimpses  of  the  exceeding  glory  that 
awaits  us,  may  we  feel  that  it  is  better  to  go  to  the 
house  of  mourning  than  to  the  house  of  feasting.  May 
this  be  the  time  for  unbounded  charity.  If  our  departed 
brother  had  his  frailties  and  imperfections, — and  who 
that  is  mortal  has  them  not? — may  we  leave  them  to 
the  merciful  silence  of  the  grave ; but  may  we  keep 
the  memory  of  his  virtues  green  and  fragrant  forever. 

I Bless  those  who  are  widowed  and  orphaned  by  this 
sad  bereavement,  and  make  this  brotherhood  faithful  to 
their  solemn  vows,  to  comfort,  aid,  and  protect  those 
thus  left  as  their  sacred  charge.  | 

And  now,  O Lord,  we  pray  for  Thy  hand  to  lead  us 
in  all  the  paths  our  feet  must  tread ; and  when  the 
journey  of  life  is  ended,  may  light  from  our  immortal 
home  illuminate  the  dark  valley  and  shadow  of  death, 
and  voices  of  the  loved  welcome  us  to  that  “ house  not 
made  with  hands,  eternal  and  in  the  heavens.”  Amen. 

Response  by  the  brethren.  So  mote  it  be. 

The  procession  will  re-form  in  the  same  order  as  it  set  out,  and  will 
return  to  the  lodge-room.  The  Master  will  order  the  Secretary  to  deposit 
the  obituary  roll  in  the  archives,  when  the  Lodge  should  be  closed. 


CELEBRATION  OF  CAPE  STONES. 


When  the  Grand  Lodge  shall  have  arrived  at  the  building,  the  Grand 
Master  shall  approach  first,  followed  by  the  other  Grand  officers,  civil  mag- 
istrate, and  other  invited  guests  of  the  Grand  Lodge,  and  all  being  in  readi- 
ness, the  Grand  Marshal  shall  advance  to  the  front  and  say: 


In  the  name  of  the  Most  Worshipful  Grand  Lodge  of 
Free  and  Accepted  Masons  of  the  State  of  Illinois,  I 
now  command  silence! 


The  choir  will  then  render  some  suitable 
ANTHEM, 

after  which  some  official,  connected  with  the  building,  should  advance  and 
publicly  invite  the  Grand  Master  to  place  the  cape  stone,  substantially  as 
follows : 

M osT  Worshipful  Grand  Master  : In  behalf  of  the 

1 rUSteeS  (Directors  or  other  officers)  of  the  (name  of  association  or  society)  Ulldei* 

whose  auspices  and  direction  this  enterprise  has  been 
thus  far  advanced,  I respectfully  request  that  you  will 
now  complete  the  building  they  have  erected,  by  the 
placing  of  the  cape  stone,  according  to  the  customs  of 
the  Most  Ancient  and  Honorable  Fraternity  of  Free 
and  Accepted  Masons. 


lOO 


CEREMONIALS. 


The  Grajul  Master  will  then  address  the  assembly,  announcing  the  pur- 
pose of  the  occasion,  etc.,  or,  if  desired,  may  mse  the  following; 

Men  and  Brethren  : It  was  one  of  the  invariable 
practices  of  the  ancient  operative  masons,  upon  the  com- 
pletion of  tile  edifice  upon  which  they  had  been  en- 
gaged, to  celebrate,  with  great  signs  of  rejoicing,  the 
placing  in  position  of  the  last  stone  of  which  the  build- 
ing was  composed.  Their  tools  were  laid  aside — rest 
and  refreshment  succeeded  labor — and  the  day  was  de- 
voted to  rejoicing  and  thanksgiving  for  the  completion 
of  the  structure. 

The  example  of  the  ancient  craftsman  is  worthy  of  all 
imitation,  and  it  is  fit  that  we  have  assembled  here  to- 
day to  crown  the  work  of  many  months,  and  that  this 
ancient  Fraternity  should  perform  the  office  of  placing 
upon  its  walls  the  last  stone  that  enters  into  its  compo- 
sition, consecrated  by  our  prayers,  and  dedicated  to 
Justice,  Virtue  and  Universal  Benevolence.  * * * 

The  teachings  of  Freemasonry  inculcate,  that  in  all  our 
works,  great  or  small,  begun  or  finished,  we  should  seek 
the  aid  of  Almighty  God.  It  is  our  first  duty  then  to 
invoke  the  blessing  of  the  Great  Architect  of  the  Uni- 
verse upon  the  work  in  which  we  are  about  to  engage. 
1 therefore  call  upon  all  present  to  unite  with  our  Grand 
Chaplain  in  an  address  to  the  Throne  of  Grace. 

The  brethren  will  uncover^*  while  the  Grand  Chaplain  delivers  the  follow- 
ing, or  some  other  appropriate 

PRAYER. 

Almighty  and  Most  Merciful  God,  w^e,  Thy  servants, 
reverently  and  humbly  approach  I'hy  presence,  and  pray 


.See  foot  note,  page  89. 


CET.EBRATION  OF  CAPE  STONES. 


lOI 


that  Thou  wilt  look  upon  and  bless  our  present  asseinl)- 
ling  and  accept  the  work  we  offer.  Ke  pleased,  O 
Father,  to  shed  abroad  in  the  hearts  of  all  men  a greater 
love  for  Thee  and  for  each  other;  incite  them  to  a due 
appreciation  of  the  nobility  of  labor,  and  incline  them 
ever  to  keep  Thy  law.  Especially  would  we  pray  that 
this  building,  now  about  to  be  completed  by  our  hands, 
may  long  remain  as  a monument  to  the  zeal  and  liber- 
ality of  its  founders,  the  architect  who  designed  it,  and 
the  craftsmen  who  have  so  faithfully  executed  the  de- 
signs; and  may  it  serve  to  encourage  others  to  emulate 
their  actions.  Bless,  we  pray  Thee,  the  labors  of  our 
Fraternity  wherever  dispersed,  and  give  to  us  all  a wider 
charity,  a more  unselfish  devotion,  and  a renewed  zeal 
for  every  good  work.  And  to  Thy  name  shall  be 
ascribed  all-  the  glory.  Amen. 

Response.  So  mote  it  be. 

Music  may  here  be  introduced,  if  desired, 

The  Deputy  Grand  Master,  evscorting  the  Principal  Architect,  who  sliould 
bear  with  him  the  working  tools,  will  then  advance  and  address  the  Grand 
Master,  as  follows: 

Most  Worshipfue  Grand  Master;  I now  have  the 

pleasure  of  pre.senting  to  you  Brother  (or  Mr.)  — , the 

architect,  to  whose  skillfully  devised  plans  and  untiring 
industry  is  due  the  magnificent  edifice  before  which  we 
are  now  assembled. 

Principal  Architect.  Most  Worshipful  Grand  Mas- 
ter; Having  been  entrusted  with  the  duty  of  designing 
this  edifice,  and  of  supervising  and  directing  the  work- 
men in  its  erection,  and  having  been  enabled  to  witness 


102 


CEREMONIALS. 


its  completion,  I now,  with  due  respect,  present  to  you 
for  inspection  and  approval  the  last  stone  that  enters  into 
its  composition,  and  with  it  the  implements  of  operative 
masonry,*  there  being  no  further  occasion  for  their  use. 

I'he  Principal  Architect  delivers  the  working  tools  to  the  Grand  Master, 
who  presents  the  square,  level  and  plumb  to  the  Deputy  Grand  Master,  Sen- 
ior and  Junior  Grand  Wardens,  respectively,  saying; 

Right  Worshipful  Brethren,  you  will  receive  the  im- 
plements of  your  office,  and  with  them  you  will  test  the 
stone.  R.  W.  Deputy  Grand  Master,  you  will  apply 
the  square. 

D.  G.  M.  M.  W.  Grand  Master,  I find  the  stone  to 
be  square.  The  craftsmen  have  performed  their  duty. 

(r.  M.  R.  W.  Senior  Grand  Warden,  you  will  apph’ 
the  level. 

.S'.  G.  IV.  M.  W.  Grand  Master,  I find  the  stone  to 
be  level.  I'he  craftsmen  have  performed  their  duty. 

G.  M.  R.  W.  junior  Grand  Warden,  you  will  apply 
the  plumb. 

/.  G.  IV.  M.  W.  Grand  Master,  I find  the  stone  to 
be  plumb.  The  craftsmen  have  performed  their  duty. 

The  Grand  Master,  then  addressing  the  Principal  Architect,  shall  say: 

I accept  this  work,  assuring  you  of  my  hearty  ap- 
proval, and  will  forthwith  proceed  to  consecrate  it  ac- 
cording to  ancient  usage.  Right  Worshipful  Brethren, 
you  will  present  the  elements. 

* Or,  if  the  corner-stone  was  laid  with  Masonic  ceremonies,  .say  : “ I now  return  to  you  the 

implements  entrusted  to  me  at  the  laying  of  the  corner-stone." 


CELEBRATION  OF  CAPE  STONES. 


lO 


The  Deputy  Grand  Master  will  advance  and  present  the  vessel  of  corn, 
saying : 


M.  W.  Grand  Master:  I respectfully  present  you 
with  the  element  of  corn,  to  be  used  according  to  im- 
memorial custom. 

M.  IV.  Grand  Master.  I scatter  this  corn  as  an  em- 
blem of  Plenty  ; may  the  blessings  of  bounteous  Heaven 
ever  be  showered  upon  us. 


The  Senior  Grand  Warden  presents  the  vessel  of  wine,  saying: 

M.  W.  Grand  Ma.ster:  I respectfully  present  you 
with  the  element  of  wine,  to  be  u.sed  according  to  im- 
memorial custom. 

M.  W.  Grand.  Master.  I pour  this  wine  as  an  em- 
blem of  J oy  and  Gladness ; may  prosperity  ever  attend 
us  and  brotherly  love  prevail  through  all  time. 

The  Junior  Grand  Warden  presents  the  vessel  of  oil,  saying: 

M.  W.  Grand  Master:  I respectfully  present  you 
the  element  of  oil,  to  be  used  according  to  immemorial 
custom. 

M.  PV.  Grand.  Master.  I pour  this  oil  as  an  emblem 
of  Peace ; may  its  blessings  abide  with  us  continually. 

And  then  extending  his  hands,  the  Grand  Master  shall  say: 

May  corn,  wine  and  oil,  and  all  the  neces.saries  of  life, 
abound  among  all  men  throughout  the  world.  May  the 
blessings  of  Almighty  God  be  upon  this  undertaking, 
and  may  the  structure  here  erected  long  remain. 


104 


CEREMONIALS. 


The  stone  will  now  be  elevated  and  placed  in  position  and  the  Grand 
Honors  will  be  given  three  times. 

The  Grand  Master  will  then  make  report  as  follows- 

1 have  the  honor  to  report  that  in  compliance  with  the 

request  of  the  proper  authorities,  the  cape  stone  of 

has  been  celebrated  with  the  ancient  ceremonies  of  the 
Craft.  Brother  Grand  Marshal,  you  will  make  procla- 
mation. 

(jrand  Marshal.  In  the  name  of  the  Most  Worship- 
ful the  Grand  Lodge  of  Free  and  Accepted  Masons  of 
the  State  of  Illinois,  1 now  proclaim  that  the  cape  stone 

of  the has  this  day  been  celebrated  according  to 

the  old  customs  of  Free  and  Accepted  Masons. 


CLOSING  01)10. 

PLACING  CAPE  S'l'ONK. 

Air — America. 


1.  Placed  now  in  form  most  true 
Our  finished  work  we  view. 
With  hearts  sincere; 

Long  be  the  Cape  Stone  found 
(iratefid  to  all  around. 

As  notes  of  joy  resound. 

In  accents  clear. 

While  years  roll  silent  by. 
Pointing  our  Hope  on  high 
There  let  it  stand  ; 


2. 


CELEBRATION  OF  CAPE  STONES. 


105 


There  may  the  good  and  great, 
With  fondest  joy  elate, 

Faith’s  promised  bliss  await. 

At  Heaven’s  command. 

3.  When,  our  last  labor  o’er, 
.Scenes  of  this  life  no  more 
Charm  our  frail  sight. 

Then  in  God’s  holy  care 
May  each  protection  share. 

Bliss  fond  unending  there 
In  Perfect  Light. 

BENEDICTION. 


14 


^:F:PEi<riDix. 


APPENDIX. 


Note. — The  following  may  be  recited  at  Masonic  funerals  in  connection 
with  the  Exhortation  found  on  page  92  of  Ceremonials,  as  a substitute  for, 
and  in  place  of,  that  portion  of  the  Exhortation  which  there  follows  be- 
tween * and  :j:.  See  foot  note,  page  92. 

And  let  us,  who  survive  our  departed  brother,  see  to 
it,  and  so  regulate  our  lives  by  the  plumb-line  oi  Justice, 
ever  squaring  our  actions  by  the  rule  of  Virttie,  that 
when  the  Grand  Warden  of  Heaven  shall  call  for  us, 
we  may  be  found  ready.  Let  us  cultivate  assiduously 
the  noble  tenets  of  our  profession — Brotherly  Love, 
Relief,  and  Truth.  From  the  Sqtiare,  learn  morality  ; 
from  the  Level,  equality ; and  from  the  Plumb,  rectitude 
of  life.  With  the  Trowel,  spread  liberally  the  cement 
of  fraternal  affection ; and  circumscribed  by  the  Com- 
passes, let  us  ponder  well  our  words  and  actions.  Let 
all  the  energies  of  our  minds  and  the  affections  of  our 
hearts,  be  employed  in  the  attainment  of  our  Supreme 
Grand  Master’s  approbation.  Then  my  brethren,  when 
the  hour  of  our  di.ssolution  draws  nigh,  and  the  cold 
winds  of  death  come  sighing  around  us,  we  shall  be  pre- 
pared to  obey  the  summons  of  the  Grand  Warden  of 
Heaven,  and  go  from  our  labors  on  earth  to  eternal  re- 
freshment in  the  Paradise  of  God,  when  by  the  benefit 
of  the  pass,  a pure  and  blameless  life,  and  an  unshaken 
faith  in  the  merits  of  the  Lion  of  the  Tribe  of  Judah, 
shall  we,  as  just  and  upright  Masons,  gain  ready  admis- 
sion into  that  Celestial  Lodge,  that  house  not  made  with 
hands,  eternal  in  the  Heavens,  where  the  .Supreme 
Grand  Master  of  the  Universe  presides. 


VISlTOklAl. 


Lodge  visitation,  by  other  than  members,  may  be 
classed  under  two  heads,  viz.:  official  and  unofficial. 
The  former  is  a right,  the  latter  a privilege.  In  both 
cases,  however,  there  are  certain  formalities  that  may- 
be observed  with  propriety. 

When  the  Grand  Master  in  person,  or  by  special 
proxy,  makes  an  official  visit,  the  Lodge  should  be  open 
on  the  Highe.st  Degree.  When  the  officer  is  announced 
the  Worshipful  Master  will  appoint  three  brethren,  the 
highest  in  rank  who  may  be  present,  whether  members 
of  the  Lodge  or  otherwise,  as  a committee  to  escort  the 
Grand  Master.  In  the  absence  of  brethren  of  past  or 
present  Masonic  title,  any  of  the  brethren  present  may 
be  selected  for  the  purpose.  The  committee  will  pro- 
ceed to  the  door  in  a body  without  any  formality,  re- 
maining inside  the  thre.shold  until  the  Grand  Master 
enters  the  hall,  when  the  brother  who  is  to  addre.ss  the 
East  will  extend  his  right  arm,  and  engage  the  left  arm 
of  the  Grand  Master.  At  this  moment  the  Worshipful 
Master  will  call  all  present  to  their  feet,  the  brethren  to 
remain  standing  until  the  Grand  Master  is  seated  in  the 
East.  The  escorting  committee,  with  the  guest,  will 
proceed  at  once  to  the  proper  place  in  the  hall,  in  files 
of  two,  the  Grand  Master  and  brother  in  charge  leading, 
accompanied  (if  convenient)  by  a strain  of  instrumental 
music.  Upon  reaching  the  center  of  the  hall,  the 


6 


APPENDIX. 


speaker  will  retain  his  place  on  the  left  of  the  Grand 
Master,  the  two  associate  brethren  on  his  right  in  line, 
the  Grand  Master  alone  saluting.  After  which  the 
guest  will  be  appropriately  presented  to  the  Worshipful 
Master  only  by  name  and  title,  viz.:  Most  Worship- 
ful A.  B.,  Grand  Master  of  Masons  of  the  State  of  Illi- 
nois. The  Worshipful  Master  will  address  such  words 
of  welcome  to  the  visitor  as  he  may  deem  proper.  After 
which  he  will  approach  the  Grand  Master,  conduct  him 
to  a place  on  his  right  in  the  East,  and  introduce  the 
brethren  present  to  the  Grand  Master  (in  terms  before 
stated),  concluding  with  an  order  to  all  present  to  salute 
the  Grand  Master  with  Masonic  grand  honors,  -3x3  (see 
foot  note  page  21).  The  Worshipful  Master  then  un- 
covers, presents  the  gavel  to  the  Grand  Master,  who  will 
seat  the  brethren,  and,  if  he  so  desires,  will  address  the 
Lodge,  and  proceed  with  the  special  matter  (if  any)  in- 
volving the  official  visit,  or  may  at  his  option  occupy 
the  East  and  preside  over  the  proceedings  of  the  Lodge; 
otherwise  he  will  return  the  gavel  to  the  Worshipful 
Master,  vacate  the  chair,  and  take  a seat  on  the  I'ight. 
At  this  point  (time  and  circumstances  permitting)  the 
Worshipful  Master  should  “call  the  Lodge  off”  for  per- 
sonal introduction  of  the  officers  and  brethren  to  the 
guest,  and  for  social  intercourse.  Should  the  Grand 
Master  desire  to  retire  before  closing,  the  Lodge  should 
be  “called  on,”  the  brethren  “called  up,”  remaining 
standing  until  the  Grand  Master  salutes  and  passes  out, 
under  a strain  of  music,  without  further  ceremony,  after 
which  the  Lodge  will  proceed  in  order. 

In  the  reception  of  a Past  Grand  Master — visiting  as 
such — of  this  or  any  other  recognized  Masonic  jurisdic- 


APPENDIX. 


7 


tion,  the  same  formalities  above  prescribed  should  be 
observed,  except  yielding  the  gavel  or  vacating  the 
“chair”  by  the  Worshipful  Master. 

The  announcement  of  the  name  of  any  Active  elected 
Grand  Officer,  or  a District  Deputy  Grand  Master 
making  an  official  visit,  should  be  recognized  by  ap- 
pointing the  Senior  Warden  and  Junior  Warden  a com- 
mittee to  wait  upon  the  visitor  at  the  door,  and  conduct 
him  to  the  proper  place  to  salute,  under  a strain  of 
music,  the  Senior  Warden  presenting  the  visitor  to  the 
Worshipful  Master,  who  will  in  turn  invite  the  guest  to 
a seat  in  the  East,  accompanied  by  the  committee,  who 
will  at  once  resume  their  stations.  The  Worshipful 
Master  will  introduce  the  brethren  to  the  visitor  by 
name  and  official  title,  and  tender  such  courtesies  as 
may  be  deemed  proper.  The  visitor  may  retire  from 
the  hall  at  any  time  without  any  special  formalities. 

Grand  Officers  by  appointment,  and  Past  Masters  of 
Lodges  A.  F.  & A.  M.,  visit  without  any  special  form- 
ality other  than  what  Masonry  prescribes,  including  the 
courtesy  of  seat  in  the  East  (except  As  otherwise  pro- 
vided), and  when  “ Lodge  is  called  off”  visiting  brethren 
of  all  grades  should  receive  at  hands  of  officers  and 
members  of  Lodge  such  attentions  as  circumstances 
may  suggest.  “Masonic  Grand  Honors”  are  omitted 
in  all  cases  of  visitation  except  Active  and  Past  Grand 
Masters,  and  to  such  only  upon  official  or  a first  visit. 

In  case  a visitor  requires  a voucher,  the  vouching 
should  always  be  made  within  the  Lodge  Hall  in  the 
presence  and  hearing  of  those  assembled,  whether  by  the 
Tyler  or  another. 


i 


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